We administer a local investment fund to help finance business start up, stabilization and expansion in Lanark County and North Leeds.  Our repayable financing is available when other sources are insufficient or unavailable and we'll work collaboratively with banks to find financing solutions for local entrepreneurs.

Contact: Tina Stevens, GM

Micro

Up to $15,000, for a variety of purposes, supporting multiple goals. Decision within 5 business days.

Line of Credit

Draw on the value of the loan in blocks up to a set limit. Lines of credit are reviewed + renewed annually, interest rate is fixed for one year. Interest-only payments are paid monthly,  principal is due on demand. Up to $250,000.

Standard

Up to $250,000 for a variety of purposes, supporting multiple goals.

A local investment fund for local entrepreneurs

Youth

Designed to advance youth entrepreneurship in our Region. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of the application and provide a viable Business Plan. Successful applicants have free unlimited attendance for one person, to all Valley Heartland + five Small Business Advisory Centre workshops during the first year of their loan. Up to $25,000.

Social Enterprise

Offered at a reduced interest rate and designed to empower non-profit organizations to create or expand sustainable Social Enterprises. Loans must be for specific growth strategies and not emergency stop-gap measures. Up to $250,000.

Women

Designed to advance women’s entrepreneurship in our Region. Successful applicants have free unlimited attendance for one person, to all Valley Heartland + five Small Business Advisory Centre workshops during the first year of their loan. Up to $250,000.

Sofii

Financing support of high-growth and innovative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in rural and urban communities Maximum Loan Amount: $500,000Visit the official SOFII website to find out more. www.sofii.ca

Business Improvement Program (BIP)

BIP assists local businesses and social enterprises with physical improvements to existing facilities to stimulate business growth and further long-term development. The applicant must be the registered owner of the property or a tenant with the written permission of the registered owner of the property. These loans are ideal for matching funds in order to apply to Municipal Community Improvement Project Grants. Up to $250,000.