In April 2012, Pasco EDC established a community-based Microloan Fund (MLF) to be a loan source for Pasco County-based small businesses and help create a stronger economy, job opportunities and provide entrepreneurial education in our community.
Loan applicants apply by completing a loan application, blank copies of which may be downloaded here or requested through Pasco EDC. Interested microloan applicants are required to talk with a member of Pasco EDC staff for directions as to the application process and review the list of all required documentation for presentation to the Microloan Committee.
Loans are available up to an amount of $50,000 with a fixed interest rate. The term of loans may range from 12 months up to a maximum of 72 months and may not be a revolving line of credit.
Loans may not be used for the purchase of real estate or for refinancing existing debt (unless an incidental part of the loan total).
Collateral will be required to the extent available, up to the total value of the loan, though lack of collateral, in and of itself, will not be grounds for denial of the loan. Personal guarantees of borrower(s) and, if applicable, spouses will be required with respect to all loans.
The interest rate for SMARTstart Microloans is based on the term of the loan and the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate. Current rates* are:
Each borrower may be required to participate in technical assistance, which must include at least 1 hour of individual counseling with a Pasco EDC staff member or SCORE counselor for each quarter during the loan term. Additional technical assistance may be required as determined during the loan application process and may include programs offered from other organizations designated by MLF to provide this service, including specific business workshops or seminars.