LOAN PROGRAM
Micro Loan Program
Quick access to capital for entrepreneurs and small businesses—no bank participation required.
Loan Range: $5,000 - $75,000
OVERVIEW
Micro Loan Program Overview
The Micro Loan Program provides smaller-scale financing for entrepreneurs and businesses that need capital quickly. Unlike Gap Financing, no bank participation is required—CWED is your direct lender.
This program is ideal for early-stage businesses, entrepreneurs without established banking relationships, or small projects that need flexible, accessible financing.
Why It Works
Micro Loans offer the speed and flexibility that small businesses need. With reduced complexity and no requirement for bank participation, you can access capital faster to seize opportunities or handle operating expenses.
Key Differentiators
No bank participation required—CWED is your lender
Loans from $5,000 to $75,000
Faster access to capital for smaller projects
DETAILS
Micro Loan Details
Loan Criteria
Requirements
Details
Loan Amount
$5,000 - $75,000
Right-sized for small business needs
Interest Rate
3-5%
Competitive, below-market rates
Bank Participation
Not Required
CWED is your direct lender
CWED's Share
100%
No need for additional lender participation
Owner’s Equity
10% Required
Your investment in the project
Collateral
Required
Including personal assets, with personal guarantees
Loan Terms
- •Working Capital & Inventory
- •Machinery, Equipment, Furniture, Fixtures
- •Real Estate
- •Up to 5 years
- •5-7 years (not to exceed life of asset)
- •Up to 10 years (may be amortized up to 20 years)
PROGRAM USES
Eligible Uses for Micro Loans
Micro Loans can support a wide range of business investments that contribute to economic growth in Central Wisconsin.
ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES:
Land, Buildings & Fixed Equipment
Acquire real estate or fixed assets (must occupy at least 51% of space)
Site Preparation & Construction
Board-approved preparation, construction, or reconstruction for non-speculative projects
Equipment Installation
Install fixed equipment (installation costs must be less than 10% of equipment cost)
Building Improvements
Clearance, demolition, removal, rehabilitation, or construction with board approval
Utility Assessments
Sewer, water, street, and other public utilities that support business expansion
Working Capital
Short-term operating expenses, including training and some relocation costs
Capital Investments
Reimbursement for certain expenditures made prior to loan approval (with board approval)
Disaster Recovery
Financial assistance for governor-declared natural disaster expenses
Pre-Approval Expenses
Major investments in business infrastructure and capacity
Special Projects
Other business investments reviewed on a case-by-case basis
ELIGIBILITY
Who Can Apply
Micro Loans are available to for-profit businesses in Central Wisconsin that meet the following criteria:
Requirements:
Operating or planning to operate in one of CWED's 10 service counties
Can provide 10% owner's equity
Project supports one or more CWED fund objectives (job creation, economic growth, etc.)
Able to provide collateral, including personal assets
Willing to provide personal guarantees
INELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES & BUSINESSES
What We Don't Fund
Ineligible Activities:
Refinancing or debt consolidation
Routine maintenance
Non-essential specialized equipment
Relocation within the region without extenuating circumstances
Residential construction (unless converting to business use)
Compensation for business weakness or poor credit history
Non-business expenses
Ineligible Businesses:
Gambling operations
Rent-to-own businesses
Adult entertainment or bookstores
Businesses not serving Central Wisconsin
Nightclubs and bars without food service
Real estate investment speculation
Lending institutions
HOW TO APPLY
Application Process
1. Contact CWED to discuss your project
2. Submit application and required documents
3. Application review and board consideration
4. Approval and loan closing
Let's discuss your project
Get started NowREQUIRED DOCUMENTS
What You’ll Need
Typical Documents
Business plan
Financial statements
Tax returns
Project budget
Bank commitment letter
Personal financial statement
SUCCESS STORY
Nine Years of Partnership: Growing Stronger Together
"CWED has been one of our strongest partners and trusted ally for the past 9 years. Through market, financial, and ownership changes, Kristen and team have been engaged, understanding, and guiding us the entire journey. Together, we have grown stronger"
Sheila Miller
President, Marathon Industrial Finishing
Let’s Build Stronger Communities Together
Connect with CWED to explore funding opportunities that support growth, jobs, and lasting impact across Central Wisconsin.