Skip to Main Content

The EDGE: Support Sources

Alabama Virtual Library (AVL)

 

Alabama Virtual Library includes several business-related databases.  Look under Adult Resources > Business Resources.

Funding

 

Most small businesses need start-up funding or financing. It can be challenging to get the needed funding to get started. The following sources are just some of the possible avenues that one may want to explore in order to seek start-up capital, along side the traditional modes of banks, relatives, friends, personal savings, etc.  Many of you may be familiar with the TV show Shark Tank. This is a great show and one can learn a lot about start-up financing and business knowledge, in general. 

  • Microfinance - learn about lending to small businesses via non-traditional channels
  • Forza Financial Forza Financial is a micro-finance bank built for entrepreneurs. We offer financial services at both socially- and financially-sustainable rates to new and existing small businesses, with an additional emphasis on financial education. Forza's intent is to build a better Alabama with every loan.
  • LIFT - Livelihoods and Food Security Fund
  • Small Business Administration (SBA) loan program 
  • SBA loans