STAMFORD, CT - The current financial crisis has adversely affected every sector of our economy, and small business is no exception. Frozen credit markets can make it impossible to get a loan to start a new business or expand an existing one. Access to capital is a major problem for businesses trying to expand into new markets as well as start ups. As a result business owners often turn to credit cards which is a very expensive way to get capital. According to the Center for Women’s Business Research, women business owners who obtained capital persevered, making an average of four attempts to obtain bank loans or lines of credit and 22 attempts to obtain equity capital. Access to capital is a key tool in the start-up and growth of successful women owned businesses.
The Women's Business Development Countil (WBDC), the leader of entrepreneurial training for women in Connecticut, is hosting anew program: Access to Capital - Alternative Small Business Loan Options. WBDC and a panel of commercial bankers and non-bank lenders will discuss opportunities for clients to secure capital for their business. Attendees will gain an understanding between traditional and non-traditional lenders, sources for alternative loans and the requirements needed to qualify. Small business owners who are ready to open or expand their business and want to understand the sources of capital available won’t want to miss this informative seminar.
“Access to Capital and Access to Markets are two of the most important drivers for business growth and expansion in today’s economy. It is critical that business owners know their options so they can go about their business and create jobs for our state”, Fran Pastore, CEO, Women’s Business Development Council.
Access to Capital - Alternative Small Business Loan Options is offered in Shelton and Stamford. On Thursday, January 19 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at The Huntington Branch Library in Shelton and Tuesday, March 6 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at The University of Bridgeport, Stamford Campus, 5 Riverbend Drive, Stamford. There is no charge but registration is required. Register online at ctwbdc.org or email Aiesha Mclean at: AMclean@ctwbdc.org.
