Starting or expanding a successful small business takes careful research and planning, and access to the right kinds of business coaching/training and business programs – at the right time. Community Futures staff are experts in small business development, and have a wealth of services to offer you, regardless of the stage you are at with your business idea. Connect with a business advisor today - it’s free for up to four hours and our other services are low-cost. We take the time to really understand your business dreams and goals, and then help you work out a plan to turn them into reality. These success stories showcase what people around Alberta are achieving with our support!
Business Loans
Community Futures Lethbridge can lend up to $150,000 to any one business, for working capital, inventory, equipment, renovations, expansion, etc.
Interest rates are based on a risk/return analysis and are comparable with other financial institutions. Loan terms are anywhere from six months to a maximum of five years, and will be negotiated in the best interest of the small business.
Clients need to demonstrate a serious commitment to the business by investing personal funds or assets, and being prepared to meet financial obligations even if the business fails. Clients must exhibit a history of honesty and integrity in their dealings with creditors and other business contacts.
Business Improvement Loans
The Business Improvement Loan Program is an interest free loan program designed to benefit businesses operating within our Communities. Through the support from the City/Town, loans of up to $10,000 are being made available to local businesses with a focus on improving local business appearance. The City/Town provides grants to cover the interest on loans made by Community Futures Lethbridge Region to qualified participants.
Appeals
Decision Appeal Processes
Community Futures Lethbridge Region is an independent not-for-profit corporation led by a volunteer Board of Directors. The local Board of Directors has final authority for all decisions.
In an effort to safeguard all efforts are made to ensure our clients are served in a fair and professional manner, the Board of Directors will ensure the corporation provides clients with access to an appeal process.
In addition, where a client requests an independent review of the Board’s original and subsequent appeal process, the Board of Directors will ensure the corporation provides the client with timely access to a process of external appeal provided in Alberta through the Southern Alberta Community Futures Region’s Appeal/Redress Committee.
The role of the Southern Alberta Community Futures Region’s Appeal/Redress Committee is to provide an external and independent review of the level of service, quality of service and the decision made by Community Futures Lethbridge Region in its decision making and internal review processes. The Board of Community Futures Lethbridge Region maintains all final authority for all decisions.
Application for External Appeal
