Who We Are
Baltimore Business Lending, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Baltimore Community Lending, Inc., is a new small business lending program designed to provide capital to emerging and growing small businesses that are creditworthy, but lack the equity or collateral necessary to qualify for traditional lending resources. The purpose of the program is to ensure access to capital for small business creation in Baltimore. This will provide employment opportunities to strengthen the economy of the City and increase the availability of goods and services to area residents to further the revitalization and stabilization of challenged neighborhoods.
Why Small Business Loans?
Since 1989, Baltimore Community Lending has been supporting the revitalization and strengthening of underserved Baltimore neighborhoods through innovative and flexible financing designed to promote community development. Given the challenges of supporting sustainable communities, BCL recognized that a small business economic growth strategy was a necessary compliment to its efforts. So it took on a leadership role in a collaborative effort of small business advocates from banks, CDFIs, foundations and nonprofit networks, to identify impediments and create solutions to financial access for small businesses.
Participating “Originators”
BBL loans will be offered through a collaborative effort with existing small business lenders and technical service providers. By focusing on production and cost efficiencies, and by providing capital for loan funding, BBL provides an opportunity for small business lenders to help borrowers who would not qualify for their own loan programs. To apply for a small business loan, contact one of our participating Originators:
SBRC Baltimore – 1101 E. 33rd Street, Baltimore, MD 21218. 410-451-7160. www.sbrcbaltimore.com
The Small Business Resource Center (SBRC), an initiative of the City of Baltimore, cultivates and supports the growth and development of small businesses and entrepreneurs in Baltimore City through technical assistance, training, counseling, lending and workshops.
Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) – 144 E. Main Street, Salisbury, MD 21801. 410-546-1900. www.marylandcapital.org
Since 2000, MCE, a private nonprofit and the only CDFI, SBA and USDA intermediary lender in the State of Maryland, has worked to build communities by supporting local small businesses. MCE provides counseling and help developing business plans for over 100 entrepreneurs per year within its service area, which includes the City of Baltimore. MCE assists in improving skills and acquiring financing to start, expand or purchase an existing business.
Washington Area Community Investment Fund’s (Wacif) – 2012 Rhode Island Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20018. 202-529-5505. www.wacif.org
Wacif’s mission is to promote equity and economic opportunity in underserved neighborhoods throughout the region. The mission is driven by three strategic pillars: inclusive entrepreneurship, community wealth building, and equitable economic development; and is fulfilled by providing access to capital products and services, and capacity building technical assistance to low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs.
Small Business Loan Product
Baltimore Business Lending provides small business loans to for-profit businesses, particularly emerging and start-up businesses located in Baltimore City. Loans can be used to purchase inventory, supplies and materials, to purchase or lease furniture, fixtures, machinery and equipment, and as operating capital. No collateral is required, however, borrowers must have a reasonable credit record with consistent payments for a period of at least 6 months prior to application.
Loans are available in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. The loan term can range from 2 years to 7 years.
In order to be eligible for the program, borrowers must work through an approved loan Originator, have a full, written business plan, and participate in a technical assistance training program. Your Originator will help you through the process.
Are You Ready to Do Business?
For more information, contact one of the Originators listed above.
Or call Baltimore Business Lending at 410-319-0732,
email Contact@BaltimoreBusinessLending.org, or visit BaltimoreBusinessLending.org
875 Hollins Street, Suite 301, Baltimore, MD 21201