About Us
The BC Community Futures Network consists of 34 offices that supports economic development and labour market changes throughout rural British Columbia. Each office supports small business development by providing business loans for applicants, self employment training and development, and specialized programs that target people who may face additional obstacles in securing business financing from a chartered bank.
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) began in 1997, through funding from Western Diversification and the support of the Community Futures network. The Community Futures offices are committed to building partnerships with local associations and community disability service providers who support people with disabilities.
EDP has dedicated loan funds available for people who self-declare a disability or heath condition and who have completed a viable business plan. The loan terms are designed to be flexible and they are tailored to meet your needs.
As a financial lender, the Community Futures network requires a level of commitment demonstrated through the initial stages of research, learning and planning a business idea.
EDP through Community Futures offers small business services that includes the following:
- Assistance with developing a business plan
- Business counseling services
- Training in small business management
- Access to small business loans
- Referrals to other government sources
The EDP business loan can be used for a variety of projects that include:
- starting or expanding your existing business
- purchasing new technologies or upgrading existing technologies that support your business operations
- upgrading facilities or equipment
- developing new markets and promotional materials
- establishing working capital for anticipated sales