Loans for women entrepreneurs up to $75,000

As part of the Alberta Women’s Economic Recovery - Capital Growth Initiative Loan, Community Futures is offering flexible low-interest small business loans, ongoing support, and advice for women entrepreneurs in rural Alberta.

These low-interest loans are designed specifically for women entrepreneurs and offer flexible repayments options and forgivable loan portions if conditions are met.

Who is eligible for the loan?

To be considered eligible for the loan, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• Be a 50.1% women-owned small or medium-sized business that is registered and located in Alberta
• Reside in the province of Alberta
• Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Be a Small And Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME - less than 500 employees and annual sales revenue of less than $20 million, and produce goods and services for the market economy regardless of your business structure, ex. sole proprietorships, social enterprises, cooperatives, etc.)

How much money can I apply for?

The loans amounts range from a minimum of $10,000 up to a maximum of $75,000.

What is the interest rate on the loan?

The interest rate is Prime + 2%, with 6 months interest-only payments at the start of loan.

How long is the term of the loan?

The loans are based on a 5-year term.

Is any portion of the loan forgivable?

Yes, a 25% portion of the loan amount is forgivable if 75% is repaid within the 5-year loan term.

Example If you borrowed $10,000 and paid back $7,500 within the 5 years, the remaining $2,500 would be forgivable.

What if I repay early or apply a lump-sum?

There are no penalties for early repayments or for lump-sum payments.

What can I use the loan money for?

The loan money can be used for operating capital, equipment, leasehold improvements, inventory, non-owner salaries and professional fees.

*Loan funds cannot be used for debt repayment.

How do I apply for the loan?

To apply for the loan, please contact your local Community Futures office.

What is the Alberta Women’s Economic Recovery - Capital Growth Initiative?

Funded by the Government of Alberta, this initiative will provide $3 million in grant funding to the Community Futures Network of Alberta (CFNA) to increase access to capital through flexible low-interest small business loans and offer business advisory supports to women entrepreneurs in rural Alberta through a network of Community Futures locations.

Questions?

If you have any questions about this article or the Capital Growth Initiative loans outlined above, please contact your local Community Futures office.