CEED Start-Up & Expansion Loans
CEED Start-Up & Expansion Loans is a financing and loans offered by CEED for entrepreneurs and small businesses in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador).
Character-based business loans from $5,000 to $50,000 for entrepreneurs starting or growing a business in Halifax, Dartmouth, and Bedford, Nova Scotia. Interest rate is Bank of Canada rate + 2%, with terms up to 5 years and no early repayment penalties.
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Program details
CEED Loans are character-based business loans designed specifically for emerging entrepreneurs who need accessible funding. Loan amounts range from $5,000 to $50,000 and are available to entrepreneurs in Halifax, Dartmouth, and Bedford, Nova Scotia. The interest rate is Bank of Canada rate + 2%, with terms up to 5 years and no early repayment penalties. CEED evaluates applications based on the entrepreneur's idea, business plan, commitment, and forward path rather than just credit score. The loan process typically takes 6-8 weeks and includes business plan analysis, financial review, credit and net worth review, and senior management and Loan Review Committee evaluation. An admin fee is required to begin the review process but does not guarantee approval. Post-loan support includes quarterly meetings in the first year and semiannual meetings thereafter. Loans can be used for equipment, tools, inventory, marketing, website development, vehicle purchases, working capital, start-up costs, and operational setup. They cannot be used for debt refinancing, property purchases, R&D, training, certifications, or travel.
Who qualifies
Must be starting or growing a business locally in Halifax, Dartmouth, or Bedford; must have or be ready to register a business; must demonstrate clear use of funds; must show ability to repay; must be open to advisory support and review
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