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Sea to Sky Small Business Loans

The Chief rock formation in Squamish, BC

1. Initial meetings

Meet with one of our team to discuss your business, your plans, and the loan process. s the business feasible and can it work here in the region? This will require multiple meetings.

A hike walks up the meadows path on the way up to the Black Tusk hike in BC, Canada

2. Loan application

Once we have assessed the business plan, we will invite you to complete a formal loan application through our portal.

The Whistler strolll, including the pagoda, in BC

3. Approval

The Community Futures Howe Sound team will review your application, and either approve the loan or ask for further information.

Business Loans with a Personal Touch 

Traditional banks and lending can sometimes be a bit black and white and might turn business owners and entrepreneurs down for a loan. 

Yet that doesn’t mean your business journey has to end there. Community Futures Howe Sound offers small business loans to start-ups and business owners based on character. That means we talk to you, learn about your business plans, and make an assessment based on those factors.  

These loans can help move a business idea from the planning stages into the action phase, help you buy a business, or provide the funds required for business expansion.  

 

We aim to keep the application process as cost effective as possible, and only charge an admin fee of 2% loan value. Additionally, we offer flexible repayment options and competitive interest rates to help ensure your business can thrive.  

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Photo: Create Makerspace, Squamish BC

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Photo: Cedar Rock Wellness, Squamish BC

Are You Eligible for a Business Loan? 

We’re (a lot) more flexible than a traditional bank when it comes to loans, but we still have some requirements for our lending, including:  

  • The business must be based in the Howe Sound region, anywhere from Lions Bay to Birken 

  • The ability to repay the loan in future 

  • Some security for the loan 

  • The business must predominantly be staffed by local residents 

  • A completed business plan and business loan application 

  • Responsible personal financial investment  

  • An applicant interview to talk about the business plan 

The Loan Application Process 

  • Meet with one of our team to discuss your business & plans  

  • We talk you through the loan application process and give you a chance to ask any questions 

  • Set up an account with Community Futures and apply for a loan 

  • The Community Futures Howe Sound board will assess your application, and either approve it or ask for more information 

  • You will sign a loan contract with terms of repayment 

  • We send you the cash 

  • Your business thrives, grows, and supports the local community 

  • You repay your loan over time, keeping in touch with the Community Futures Howe Sound team for ongoing support and business advice 

 

Loan processing times can vary, but we aim to keep things quick and efficient so you can get on to the business of business. You can speed up your process by ensuring all your application forms are complete before you send them in.  

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Photo: Firetail Pets, Squamish BC

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Photo: Pearls Value & Vintage, Squamish

Are You Ready For a Business Loan?  

If you've explored the eligibility criteria and are ready to move ahead, you can start the loan application process today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you help with rural business development?

Absolutely, our expertise extends to rural business development. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities rural businesses face and provide tailored business guidance and support to ensure their success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Supporting Businesses in the Sea to Sky, No Strings Attached

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