Alterna Savings - BDC Business Accelerator Loan Program

Overview of the Alterna Savings - BDC Business Accelerator Loan Program program:

The Alterna Savings Business Accelerator Loan Program, backed by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), aims to improve access to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ontario. It particularly supports entrepreneurs from diverse and equity-deserving groups, including Indigenous peoples, women, newcomers, visible minorities, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities, who often face barriers in obtaining traditional financing. The program provides term loans ranging from $25,000 to $500,000 for operational cash-flow needs, enabling businesses to expand operations, stabilize cash flow, or invest in growth-related expenses. Loans are issued and serviced by Alterna Savings, a member-owned financial cooperative, with the BDC acting as a guarantor to reduce the lender’s risk and increase approval opportunities for small business owners. The financing is intended for working capital and cannot be used to refinance existing debts. Repayment terms are flexible, featuring amortizations of up to 6 years with equal monthly principal payments, offering businesses predictable and manageable repayment structures. Through this program, Alterna reinforces its commitment to equitable access to capital, sustainable small business growth, and community-based economic empowerment across Ontario.

Benefits of the Alterna Savings - BDC Business Accelerator Loan Program program:

• Access to flexible working capital loans between $25,000 and $500,000.
• BDC guarantee reduces lending risk and increases chances of approval.
• Inclusive financing supporting underrepresented business owners (women, Indigenous, newcomers, 2SLGBTQ+, visible minorities, and people with disabilities).
• Predictable repayments with equal monthly principal installments over up to 6 years.
• Personalized advice and support from Alternas business advisors.
• Encourages sustainable small business growth and supports community-based entrepreneurship.
• Access to Alternas full suite of business banking services, including credit, deposits, and financial planning.

Eligibility criteria of the Alterna Savings - BDC Business Accelerator Loan Program program:

• Eligible Businesses Must:
• Be based in Ontario.
• Have been operating for at least 12 months.
• Generate annual revenues under $10 million.
• Have operational cash-flow needs between $25,000 and $500,000.
• Conduct day-to-day banking with Alterna Savings.
• Additional Criteria:
• Must use the funds strictly for operational cash-flow needs, not to refinance other loans.
• Must demonstrate capacity to meet repayment obligations.
• Businesses owned or led by equity-deserving groups are strongly encouraged to apply.