Business Assistance

Previously managed programs: 

Micro Lending Program

The Micro Lending program promotes the development and expansion of micro businesses, which is a small business, which has up to five employees and financing needs of $25,000 or less. To be eligible for this program a business must operate within the Imperial County, be classified as a Sole Proprietorship, and employ no more than 5 people at the time of application. Loans are provided in the maximum amount of $25,000.

Collateral requirements will vary according to the loan amount requested. Funds may be provided for land acquisition, equipment, working capital and fixed asset loans. Depending on credit and collateral, the interest rate will vary from a minimum of 2% below prime to prime plus 2% on the date of approval.

Revolving Loan Fund Program

The Revolving Loan Fund program (RLF) assists in the creation and/or retention of jobs by providing businesses with in the unincorporated areas of the County with gap financing for start-up, ongoing operations and expansions. Funds may be provided for construction, land acquisition, equipment, working capital and fixed asset loans.

Depending on credit and collateral, the interest rate will vary from a minimum of 2% below prime to prime plus 2% on the date of approval. The RLF loan must be secured with assets adequate to cover loan amount. Equity: generally 10% new equity for existing businesses and 30% for start-up businesses.

The Imperial County Community and Economic Development currently utilizes United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funds to operate this program.