Small Business Financing
The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) is a federal program administered by the Department of Treasury to strengthen state programs that support private financing, making more capital available to small businesses located across the state.
The SSBCI program is not a grant program, and each business will need to meet certain requirements set forth by lenders or investors. These programs have different pathways and requirements for full utilization. Summary information about the programs is provided below.
Arizona offers three programs under SSBCI:
Arizona Loan Guarantee Program
The Arizona Loan Guarantee Program (AZLGP) supports small businesses and eligible non-profits in Arizona by providing guarantees to lenders on loans to small businesses that do not qualify for traditional financing due to shortfalls in cash flow, credit history, credit score, or collateral.
Eligible business purposes include startup costs, working capital, equipment, inventory, the purchase of any tangible or intangible assets except goodwill, and the purchase, construction, renovation, or tenant improvements of an eligible place of business excluding passive real estate investment.
Eligible businesses must be in Arizona and have no more than 750 employees, including any parent company and all locations. Some business types are ineligible under SSBCI guidelines; see our FAQs for details.
Loans are provided through our partner lenders, not directly by the ACA. For loan inquiries, please contact our partners listed below:
Border Financial Resources empowers individuals and businesses in the Yuma Valley by providing local funding, affordable payment options, and accessible financing for small business, personal, and mortgage loans.
Click here for more information about Border Financial Resources.
Clearinghouse CDFI specializes in small business loans for acquisition, renovation, and expansion between $500,000 and $12 million, specifically collateralized with commercial real estate.
Click here for more information about Clearinghouse CDFI.
Community Investment Corporation (CIC) offers small business loans up to $100,000, personalized support, and alternative underwriting that de-emphasizes collateral and credit to provide greater access to capital to Southern Arizona entrepreneurs.
Click here for more information about Community Investment Corporation (CIC).
Desert Financial Credit Union empowers the financial well-being of businesses across Arizona, offering competitive rates, personalized service, and local financing.
Click here for more information about Desert Financial Credit Union.
DreamSpring is an award-winning nonprofit organization that increases access to credit, makes business loans from $1,000 to $2 million, and provides a community of support to help entrepreneurs realize their dreams.
Click here for more information about DreamSpring.
Growth Partners Arizona offers loan products ranging from $15,000 up to $150,000, financial education, workshops, and small business support.
Click here for more information about Growth Partners Arizona.
Lendistry CDFI offers a variety of startup and small business financing options ranging from $50,000 – $5,000,000.
Click here to learn more about Lendistry.
Prestamos CDFI offers loan products ranging from $10,000 up to $1 million, business consulting services, and investment opportunities.
Click here for more information about Prestamos CDFI.
Vantage West Credit Union is a relationship-focused financial partner for Arizona small businesses, offering tailored lending solutions delivered by an experienced local team. As a member-owned credit union, we are committed to helping businesses grow, invest, and build long-term financial strength in the communities we serve.
Click here for more information about Vantage West Credit Union.
WaFd Bank is a full-service bank offering a host of business loan options including lines of credit and term loans tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses. As a Preferred SBA lender, WaFd Bank is committed to helping clients start, grow, and succeed.
Click here for more information about WaFd Bank.
Arizona Venture Co-Invest Program – AVC Ignite
The Arizona Venture Co-Invest Program makes direct equity investments in innovative seed- and early-stage businesses in targeted sectors alongside institutional/venture capital firms, established angel capital associations, corporate VCs and established accelerators and incubators. This program is administered through the non-profit AZ Venture Capital Inc. (AVC).
Arizona Multi-Fund Venture Capital Program – AVC Limited Partner
The Arizona Multi-Fund Venture Capital Program provides equity investments in established venture capital firms to attract new capital in innovative Arizona-based businesses. This program is administered through the non-profit AZ Venture Capital Inc. (AVC).
Visit the Arizona SSBCI Programs FAQ page for answers to the commonly asked questions.
For more information about SSBCI, visit the SSBCI page on Treasury's website.
For questions about Arizona’s allocation of SSBCI funding or any of the programs, please contact [email protected] or fill out the form below: