CDFA Launches Improved Microenterprise Program

The New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) announced it has improved its program opportunities to assist entrepreneurs and small business owners in accessing financial and technical assistance. The 2022/2023 Microenterprise Program award will support 3 economic development partnerships that offer not only services, education, and loans, but new for this year are equipment grants and even commercial building down payment assistance for micro-businesses throughout the state.

In partnership with Grafton Regional Development Corporation (GRDC), CEDC will have access to two (2) $5000 equipment grants totaling $10,000 and one (1) down payment assistance for a commercial building up to $10,000. This will be available on a first come first serve basis. The Microenterprise Program helps foster economic development by supporting organizations like CEDC that provide a full range of entrepreneurial training and technical assistance services to low- and moderate-income micro-business owners and start-ups (those with fewer than five employees).

“Small businesses are a significant driver of New Hampshire’s economy,” stated Katherine Easterly Martey, Executive Director, CDFA. “The Microenterprise Program provides the support and training necessary to empower small business owners and entrepreneurs to innovate and thrive within our communities.” Funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is provided to New Hampshire through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Microenterprise Program is a subset of the CDBG Economic Development Program.