An independent small business lender. Sequoyah Fund’s mission is to provide training, technical assistance and resources to support entrepreneurship, business start up and expansion and community development in the seven far western counties of North Carolina and on the Qualla Boundary. › LEARN MORE

What does SBA offer to small business owners? The programs are many and varied, and the qualifications for each are specific. SBA can help facilitate a loan for you with a third party lender, guarantee a bond, or help you find venture capital. › LEARN MORE

The Southwestern Commission (SWC) is the Development District serving the seven western counties of North Carolina (Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain Counties). SWC’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is an economic development tool to assist in the creation of jobs in local business and industry by offering short-term fixed asset, equipment and working capital financing that is available in the seven western counties of NC. It is jointly funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Economic Development Administration, the State of North Carolina, and the Southwestern Commission. › LEARN MORE

For 25 years, Mountain BizWorks has been providing small business loans to help businesses in Western North Carolina launch and expand. Our loans range from $1,000 to $150,000, focusing on entrepreneurs who have trouble securing funding from banks and other traditional sources. › LEARN MORE

Typically invests $10,000 to $100,000 primarily, but not exclusively, in early stage companies in the healthcare, medical and technology industries. › LEARN MORE

Rural communities will prosper only to the extent they can build and sustain a strong private sector. The Rural Center offers the NC Small Business Credit Initiative and the Microenterprise Loan Program.› LEARN MORE