Community Futures
Are you a bank or a Government agency?
Neither, Community Futures 16/37 is an independent not-for-profit corporation run by a local Board of Directors that provides financial and non-financial assistance.
Starting a Business
Can I get a grant to start my business?
No, not an outright grant. Community Futures 16/37 provides loans to help you start, expand or maintain a business. The Self-Employment Benefits program provides funding assistance while you are starting your business.
Why do I need a Business Plan, when I know in my head what I want to do?
A business plan is a written guide and plan of action for the business. It lets you know where you are, where you should be, how much time and money you need to invest in the business and what type of return you are getting from the business. It also helps you to prove to others (bankers, investors, creditors) that you know what you are doing and your business is viable.
I have an old Business Plan from a few years. Can I dust it off and use it or do I need a whole new plan?
You need a new plan. So much has changed in the past few years that the figures you used are not valid anymore. If your business idea is the same, update the Plan. If you now have a different business idea, you need a whole new Business Plan.
Will you write my Business Plan for me if I tell you what I want to do?
No, it is your business so the plan has to be written by you. You are the one that needs to know all aspects of the business to navigate through all obstacles. We guide you through the process and tell you what information you need in your plan. Our business plan template provides an easy to follow format.
Once I have a business plan, can I come to you first for a loan?
Yes, but as a complentary lender, we will try to assist you with getting financing from a chartered bank but yes, funding is available through us.
Can I use Community Futures 16/37’s service if I secure financing from another source?
Yes, you can use our service without feeling obligated to apply for a loan with us. We are here to promote business development in our service area and encourage you to seek financing from any source that you feel is best for you and your company.
What “down payment” do you require?
We look for many things when determining this, but your personal financial statement will show what you have available and your business plan will show what level of owner capital you should be providing.
How long does it take to get a loan?
Usually no more than two weeks after you submit a completed business plan with all accompanying documentation.
Can I get rich going into business for myself?
Going into business is not a “get rich quick” scheme. It often takes long hours and lots of work, there are risks, but the rewards in terms of being your own boss, setting your own schedule and making as much money as you can are worth it. Hopefully, there is more than dollars that have attracted you to your business venture.
Can I get on your program if I don’t live in your region?
No, but we will be happy to direct you to a Community Futures office in your community.
How much do your services cost?
All services provided by Community Futures are free, except for lending programs which have loan fees and interest charges.
Self Employment Benefits Program (SEB)
How do I qualify for the Self-Employment Benefits (SEB) Program?
You must be on Employment Insurance or have been on EI in the last 3 years or on maternity/parental benefits in the past 5 years. You must also be unemployed and starting a new business. You must be referred by one of our Service Providers.
Can I get SEB benefits while I’m receiving EI or Social Assistance?
No, SEB replaces your EI or Social Assistance. The difference is that on SEB you are allowed (and expected) to make as much money as you want without losing your SEB funding.
If my business fails, can I go back on EI?
No. You cannot go back on EI since you were self-employed.
I have a business plan, can I get on the SEB program right away?
No. Your business plan is submitted to our SEB committee for approval. We accept up to 5 SEB applicants per month provided they have a feasible business proposal.
Can I get a loan from Community Futures while I am on the SEB program?
Yes, it is possible to access both programs at the same time. However, you are required to have personal investment in the business to fulfill the SEB requirements.
Do I need a different business plan to apply for a loan or can I use my SEB business plan?
You can use the same business plan for both programs as the financial information required for the SEB application and a loan application should be the same. It is always a good idea to look at your business plan at the end of each year to see if you are on target.
