Oregon Microenterprise Network

Mira Fannin (center), Owner of Sweet Skins Clothing, received a small business loan through the CapitalLink program to expand her clothing line to boutiques and online sales.

CapitalLink is a revolving loan fund that provides capital access to Oregon communities who have little or no access to loan programs and cannot access traditional financial services. The program serves businesses operated outside the city of Portland whose owners are typically low-to-moderate income. In addition to providing financing, CapitalLink connects loan borrowers with local microenterprise development providers who provide training and technical assistance to business owners.

Eligibility Requirements:

CapitalLink loans are available to qualified existing private, for-profit businesses or start-up enterprises operated outside the city of Portland. Among CapitalLink’s target market are women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses and businesses owned by low-to-moderate income individuals.

Loan Terms:

• Loan amount: $500 to $35,000
• Repayment: Up to 5 years
• Interest: Up to 12% based on credit history, experience and collateral
• Flex payments and interest-only payments considered

Typical Use of Funds:

• Acquisition of machinery and equipment
• Inventory
• Leasehold improvements
• Working capital

Required Loan Documents

• Loan Application
• Business Plan
• Articles of Incorporation / DBA / Partnership Agreement
• Business financial statements (2 years) & Current interim financials
• Prior-year Business and Personal Tax Returns (2 years), as applicable
• Financial projections, including revenue and expense projections for the first three years of operation
• Owner’s personal financial statement
• Copy of lease agreement / purchase agreement

Application Process

Initial Contact: Please make contact with CapitalLink program staff at 503.546.9913 or capital@oregon-microbiz.org to discuss your need for financing.

Part I of Application: Business owner submits a Business Plan and Financing Request Cover Sheet for review by OMEN Loan Officer. For assistance in writing your business plan, contact your local microenterprise service provider.

Part II of Application: OMEN Loan Officer provides recommendations on the Business Plan including local sources of business technical assistance (TA). If applicant is invited to apply for a loan, applicant submits a complete loan application package to OMEN including a $25 application fee.

Application Decision: OMEN reviews the loan application package, orders a credit report if not already ordered, and contacts the business owner if additional information or clarification is needed. A decision regarding loan funding is rendered within 30 days. Funding may be contingent upon the business owner seeking Technical Assistance (TA) at the local service provider, as determined by OMEN Loan Officer.

For more information on the loan application process contact CapitalLink at 503.546.9913 or capital@oregon-microbiz.org