SEDC Blog

Welcome to the inaugural Southland EDC blogpost! Admittedly we are late to the blog party but here we are, nonetheless.

2024 was a fantastic year for Southland EDC. We exceeded many of our lofty expectations. As most of you know, we offer a variety of lending products for small businesses, but what is less known is the technical assistance and counseling we provide. We consider ourselves, primarily, a resource to CA small businesses and a substantial amount of staff and managements time is spent fielding questions related to starting or operating a small business in the state. There is a wealth of experience here at Southland and there likely isn’t a situation we haven’t encountered. In the event we cannot help we have a lengthy list of resource partners who can. We make this service free to the public in large part based on grants we receive. We would like to thank City National Bank and Citizens Business Bank for their generous grant contributions in 2024. Your help makes all this possible. If you or anyone you know has questions related to starting or operating a business in CA do not hesitate to reach out to (888) 600-8855. Thank you for your time and Happy New Year!

Approximately 32.8% of small business owners cite a lack of capital as the primary reason for their business closures. This startling statistic underscores one of the most significant challenges entrepreneurs face: securing the financial resources needed to sustain and grow their operations. From covering everyday expenses like payroll and inventory to making strategic investments in equipment or facilities, adequate funding is essential for success. Yet, for many business owners, navigating the complexities of financing can be overwhelming. This is where a Certified Development Corporation (CDC) can make a transformative difference, providing not only access to capital but also the guidance and support needed to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

A Certified Development Corporation (CDC) is a nonprofit organization authorized by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to facilitate economic growth through government supported capital programs. One of the most impactful tools CDCs offer is the SBA 504 Program, designed to provide small businesses with long-term, fixed-rate financing for major fixed assets like real estate and equipment. Beyond financing, CDCs also serve as valuable partners, offering mentorship, market insights, and connections to local resources. This combination of funding and expertise empowers businesses to not only overcome financial hurdles but also implement sustainable growth strategies, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits for their communities.

For businesses struggling with limited capital, the SBA 504 Program is a game-changer. Unlike traditional financing, it offers a unique structure that minimizes upfront costs and reduces financial risk. With as little as a 10% down payment required, small businesses can secure competitive, fixed rates and enjoy repayment terms of up to 25 years. This makes it easier to invest in critical assets like new facilities, updated technology, or state-of-the-art equipment. By partnering with a CDC, business owners can focus on scaling their operations while benefiting from affordable financing tailored to their needs. These advantages not only fuel individual business success but also contribute to job creation and local economic revitalization.

Southland EDC Blog

Certified Development Corporations Power Business Growth