Business Assistance & Funding
At the CDC, we understand that starting or expanding a business can be a challenging journey, but you don't have to navigate it alone. In our "Business Assistance" section, we offer valuable resources and support to entrepreneurs at every stage of their business venture. Our website features links to various business development tools and guides, helping you create a comprehensive business plan to set you on the right path. Additionally, we provide insights into diverse funding options, including information about our Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) program. We encourage businesses to reach out to our office for personalized help and guidance. Whether you're a startup looking for guidance or an established business seeking financial assistance, our "Business Assistance" resources are here to empower you in your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Crafting a well-structured business plan is the cornerstone of building a successful enterprise. A solid business plan is your roadmap to success, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. It not only helps you understand your business better but also presents a clear vision to potential investors, lenders, and partners. With a strong business plan in place, you'll be better equipped to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. It's your tool for mitigating risks, setting realistic expectations, and ensuring that your business remains on the right trajectory. When you work with a meticulously crafted business plan, you're setting your business up for success by having a clear strategy to follow, making it more attractive to potential investors and positioning it for long-term growth and prosperity. We are dedicated to supporting your journey in crafting a compelling business plan. To get started, with your business plan, we recommend using liveplan.com. You can find the link in the button below or for personal assistance from the CDC, click the correlating button.
Create a Business Plan
*liveplan.com is a 3rd party paid service. They are not affiliated with the CDC and the CDC does not receive any compensation for using their resources.
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America’s SBDC Iowa provides no fee, confidential, customized business advice and affordable, practical training workshops to entrepreneurs and existing businesses with up to 500 employees. Advice and assistance is provided with business planning, new business guidance, financing options, cash flow projections, loan proposals, business expansion, market research, exporting, marketing, exit strategies, business continuity and more. We also provide comprehensive information services and access to other experts in a variety of fields. We are the only nationally-accredited entrepreneurial development organization in Iowa. A network of 15 regional assistance centers serves all 99 Iowa counties. On average, our clients grow significantly faster than the average Iowa business.
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Register your Trade Name at the Crawford County Courthouse.
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Our partners at HUB 712 in Carroll, IA offer many onsite business services.
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IA Source Link is the go-to resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners who need help starting, scaling, or accelerating their business in Iowa.
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File, pay, and get tax refunds on the IRS site
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Iowa Business Growth provides alternative financing resources that complement the more traditional products available through conventional lenders.
IBG’s various programs including the SBA 504 loan program and the New Markets Tax Credit Program, all enhance rather than duplicate or compete with the lending community that it serves
IBG is a certified development company “CDC” that has achieved a high-level certification with the SBA in administering the government’s premier loan program geared toward expanding businesses (504).
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The Iowa Secretary of State provides a broad range of information on corporations, nonprofit corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability companies and state trademarks. File forms online, search databases and get information about nonprofits at this site.
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The Iowa Department of Revenue is a source of information about a wide variety of Iowa taxes including: • Individual Income Tax • Corporation Income Tax • Sales/Use Tax (Local Option Sales Tax (LOST), Hotel/Motel Tax, Auto Rental Tax) • Income Tax Withholding • Inheritance Tax • Fuel Tax • Property Tax • Cigarette/Tobacco Tax
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Iowa Department of Inspections & Appeals (DIA) is a multifaceted regulatory agency charged with protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Iowans.
DIA is responsible for inspecting and licensing or certifying health care providers and suppliers, restaurants and grocery stores, social and charitable gambling operations, and hotels and motels.
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Region XII Council of Governments assists local governments in Audubon, Carroll, Crawford, Greene, Guthrie, and Sac Counties in western Iowa. Although originally chartered to serve grant writing and planning needs for the area, the COG has grown into the agency that facilitates multi-community collaboration and development of all types, providing initiatives in the region that are needed and otherwise not provided. Region XII COG has two departments:
Through the Local Assistance Department, the COG provides technical assistance to communities in the areas of planning, infrastructure, transportation, housing, grant writing, recreation, ordinances, zoning, economic development, and other community and county projects. The COG also provides the Iowa Waste Exchange service, which provides Iowa industries with smart waste management alternatives and helps reduce waste into Iowa landfills.
The COG also staffs Western Iowa Advantage, which is a multi-county collaborative marketing effort and the Region XII Development Corporation, which has several revolving loan funds for business development and expansion.
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Western Iowa Advantage region includes the counties of Audubon, Calhoun, Carroll, Crawford, Greene, Ida and Sac. With an optimal mix of financial advantages, infrastructure, quality of life and a loyal, hardworking labor force, locating here is an easy choice!
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To be eligible for Targeted Small Business Loan, businesses must be:
Located in the state of Iowa
Operating for profit
Make less than $4 million in gross income, computed as an average of the preceding three fiscal years
Majority owned (51% or more), operated and managed by a female, individual with minority status, service disabled veteran or individual with a disability
Explore the resources below for valuable links related to business assistance. Click the + icon next to each title to reveal more information, including a brief description and a direct link.
LINKS
Funding
CDC Microloan Revolving Loan Fund (RLF)
The Chamber & Development Council of Crawford County (CDC) manages a $100,000 revolving loan fund (RLF) targeted to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and start-up companies. Businesses can apply for up to $15,000 from the revolving loan fund. Applications require a completed business plan and financial reports. If an applicant needs assistance with business and financial plans, free services are available from the Small Business Development Center. Successful applicants may apply loan funds to the purchase of equipment, inventory, remodeling costs, etc. Building construction or additions are not approved uses of the funds. For additional information, or to obtain an application, contact Mariah Nutt at 712-263-5621, by emailing mnutt@cdcia.org, or stop by the CDC office at 109 N. Main St.
Other Revolving Loan Funds for Businesses and Economic Development:
Grants
The CDC does not administer grants, but you can find helpful grant resources here.
Banks & Credit Unions
Our local banks and credit unions, are your trusted financial partners in Crawford County. With a wealth of expertise and personalized service, they are committed to helping you secure the funding you need for growth and success. Combine their financial know-how with the Chamber & Development Council's (CDC) Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) resources for a powerful collaboration. Together, we can tailor solutions to fit your unique needs, providing you with the support and financial insight necessary to thrive in our community.
Banks: Bank Iowa, Crawford County Bank, United Bank of Iowa
Credit Unions: Colbalt Credit Union, Greater Iowa Credit Union, Telco Triad
Let's Get Started – Book Your Personal Consultation
We're excited to be your partner in business growth! Schedule a one-on-one consultation with our team, and let's dive into your aspirations. Your success matters to us, and that's why our tailored assistance is available at no cost for Crawford County businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. Talk to us today!