Community First Fund provides a variety of loans to individuals and community based organizations committed to starting or expanding small or mid-sized businesses, creating affordable housing units, or developing commercial spaces that will impact the community. Community First Fund charges nominal application fees ranging from $50 to $100.

Small Business Loans: Up to $35,000 for the starting of new businesses or expansion of existing businesses. Uses may include machinery and equipment purchases, site improvements, working capital, inventory, materials and supplies, and expansion.

Mid-sized Business Loans: From $35,000 to $500,000+ for businesses that have typically been in business for two years or more. Loans are used to support the increased capital needs of maturing businesses and may be used for such things as expanding or improving the business site and services provided, increasing supplies, materials and/or staff.

Community Development Loans: For non-profit and community organizations to develop and support community-based programs.

Affordable Housing Loans: For profit and non-profit developers to rehabilitate affordable housing for rental or resale.

Commercial Mortgage Loans: Up to $500,000 for commercial properties used as investments, retail space, wholesale operations, light manufacturing, storage, etc. The purpose can be to purchase, construct or refinance.

SBA 7-A Guaranteed Loans:  For more information on the SBA 7-A program, for loans ranging from $50,000 to $300,000, visit the U.S. Small Business Adminstration’s Web site.