Financial Assistance

You are invited to visit the various financial partners who are on-site at the Center to explore financing and capital options for your business.

The following are the available financial assistance programs:

SBA Loan Programs - The SBA is the largest source of long-term small business financing in the nation. The SBA does not, however, make direct loans. To obtain an application for SBA financing, you should contact a lender with whom you already have a relationship or one of the SBA Participating Lenders on-site at the Cisco Systems•San Jose Entrepreneur Center. The following is a summary of available SBA loan programs:

Microloans - Under this program, short-term loans of up to $35,000 are made to small businesses for the purchase of machinery and equipment, inventory and working capital, but not to pay existing debt.

Business Loans - The SBA guarantees loans to small businesses where necessary financing is unavailable on reasonable terms. SBA can guarantee up to 75% (not to exceed $1.5 million depending on type of business and loan) of the loan value. Proceeds can be used for working capital, fixed assets, leasehold improvements and the acquisition of commercial business property. SBA will not decline an application solely because of lack of sufficient collateral.

Real Estate Financing - This program provides long-term financing for real estate acquisition for owner/users through Certified Development Companies (CDCs). Loan proceeds are provided as follows: 50% by an unguaranteed bank loan; 40% by an SBA-guaranteed debenture; and, 10% by the small business applicant. To obtain more information, contact one of the CDCs on-site at the Entrepreneur Center: Bay Area Development Company or TMC Development.

Northern California Financial Development Corporation (Nor-Cal FDC) - Assists clients in securing State-guaranteed and commercial funding. Nor-Cal FDC also administers the State of California's Childcare Financing Facilities program, which provides direct financing for childcare providers who want to purchase or build a childcare center. Nor-Cal FDC also administers the State's Surety Bond Guarantee Program.

Venture/Equity Financing Sources - Provide equity financing, such as venture capital, for emerging businesses. Silicon Valley Community Ventures (SVCV) - Invests in and develops businesses that provide substantial economic benefits to low-income communities in the Bay Area. SVCV provides business advice and assistance, equity and debt financing, and an extensive resource network to businesses located in and hiring from low-income communities. Targeted areas include San Jose, East Palo Alto, San Francisco and Oakland.

Export Financing - A variety of financing programs are available to assist businesses owners in increasing trade with other countries.

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