Nova Scotia Small Business Financing Program
Helping small business with big ideas is precisely why the Small Business Loan Guarantee Program was created.
It is the only financing program of it’s kind designed to empower small businesses in Nova Scotia to succeed. This is a joint initiative with Nova Scotia Co-operative Council, Atlantic Central, local credit unions, and Province of Nova Scotia. Together, we are delivering better financial assistance for the start-up and expansion of small businesses. The Small Business Loan Guarantee Program supports provincial business owners with creating and maintaining rewarding careers for Nova Scotians yearly.
Credit unions are the only financial provider to offer access to the financing program. That will ensure investments in our small businesses start and stay in Nova Scotia. Credit unions can provide financing up to $500,000 in the form of term loans, working capital and lines of credit. No other financing programs provide access to working capital or lines of credit to individuals. It's for individuals interested in starting or purchasing a small business and/or grow and expand an existing business.
Each application is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and is based on your business plan, viability and character. Your character? That’s right. And it doesn’t stop at the approval. The program is designed to empower Nova Scotia businesses to succeed, including access to mentors for business coaching. That makes this program accessible and supportive for Nova Scotia small businesses.
Financing Details:
Loans may be granted for a term of up to of 10 years. The maximum guarantee supplied by the Province of Nova Scotia is 90 percent of the value of all term loans. The guarantee will remain at 75 percent on lines of credit. However, a 90 percent guarantee may be available to those that qualify under our special financing streams.
All types of businesses are eligible except residential and commercial real estate, beverage rooms and taverns. Any other venture of a questionable ethical or legal nature will also not be eligible.
Special financing streams for immigrant entrepreneurs and social enterprises as well as the forestry and high-risk sectors are also available.
For more information visit: http://www.novascotia.coop/
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for a small business loan? Expand/Collapse
Residents of Nova Scotia wishing to start a small business or co-operatives in the province they will grow their business.
Where is this program available? Expand/Collapse
This program is available across Nova Scotia, through credit unions only.
How do I apply? Expand/Collapse
What will the Credit Union require from me? Expand/Collapse
Your credit union will require a business plan that shows the viability of your idea. You may have to provide information regarding your net worth, credit history and documents required when applying for a loan.
Does my past credit history count? Expand/Collapse
Credit history is an important piece of your identity. All financial institutions will check credit histories when you apply for credit of any kind. A credit history report however, is not the only criteria used by a credit union to make a lending decision. those with a less than perfect credit history are still eligible to apply under the Small Business Financial program.
Will I need to give personal security or guarantees to the credit union? Expand/Collapse
Yes. The credit union will evaluate your loan request by following regular credit lending criteria. This will include an assessment of your personal net worth. Even if your application doesn't fit normal criteria, the Caisse can apply for a loan guarantee to offset this risk. The credit union can apply for a loan guarantee if they think your business has potential for success. The maximum amount of the loan guarantee will often be 90 percent of the loan value, up to $500,000.
How much can I borrow? Expand/Collapse
Under this program, the maximum amount that can be borrowed is $500,000.
What kind of financing does this program cover? Expand/Collapse
The program can cover loans that are of a traditional debt nature, for working capital or lines credit.
Are there any restrictions on the type of business eligible? Expand/Collapse
All types of businesses are eligible except residential and commercial real estate, beverage rooms and taverns. Also, any venture of a questionable ethical or legal nature is ineligible. Each application is evaluated on a case by case basis, and based on the business plan and viability.
What are the terms of the loan? Expand/Collapse
The terms and conditions of the loan will be negotiated between the client and the credit union. The maximum term under this program is ten years.
What is the interest rate? Expand/Collapse
The interest rate is negotiated between the client and the credit union
Is there a fee to access this program? Expand/Collapse
Clients are required to pay a one percent administration fee annually, based on the total value outstanding on the loan. This 1 percent is a guaranteed fee that is remitted by the credit union to the Provincial Department of Finance.
Are personal loans eligible? Expand/Collapse
No. The program only applies to business ventures.
Are there any other requirements under this program? Expand/Collapse
If there are weaknesses in your business plan, we may request a business mentor as a condition of the loan. Our development agency, the Nova Scotia Co-operative Council, will work with you to find a suitable mentor.
Is there any support available if I need help with putting my business plan and application together? Expand/Collapse
Yes. The Nova Scotia Co-operative Council can assist you with accessing the technical assistance you require to strengthen your plan.
