Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Investment Loan

Northwest CFDC, throughits staff and Board of Directors, administers a small business investment fundto assist in the establishment or expansion of small business in the northwestregion of Manitoba.The fund is intended as a lender of last resort, and provides repayable smallbusiness loans; loan guarantees, and in certain cases, will consider equityparticipation.

The Entrepreneurs withDisabilities Investment Loan Fund is one such fund offered by Northwest CFDC in order to assist people withdisabilities to persue entrepreneurial opportunities. This program will helpreduce barriers to participation for Canadians with disabilities who areseeking to expand their business horizons.

Am I eligible?
Applicants who have a disability due to physical or mental impairment and whoseability to perform at least one of the basic activities of self-employment orentrepreneurship is restricted, are eligible.

Is this a grant?
No. Northwest CFDC will only consider loans, loanguarantees, or equity participation. All funding is repayable with interestrates equivalent to bank prime plus 1% to 3%.

What is the maximum,which can be borrowed?
The maximum amount which can be loaned to any individual, or business underthis particular program is $75,000 for the establishment or expansion of theirbusiness. It should be noted that the level of funding released would bedirectly related to the details and feasibility of the submitted business plan.

How much equity isrequired?
A minimum of 10% equity is required, and business and personal collateral maybe requested to secure the financing provided.

How can I apply?
The staff at Northwest CFDC will assess apotential applicant's eligibility, assist in completing application forms, andprovide information required to prepare a business plan. The application isthen reviewed by the volunteer Board of Directors.