Quality Service for All – At Little to No Cost!

One of the things we find many people who are new to CCV don’t realize is that almost all of our consulting and financial services are free.  We are able to provide these services to our clients at little cost thanks to contributions from our friends and partners.  It is our belief that small businesses deserve access to high quality, valuable services.  Equivalent services can cost hundreds of dollars which just isn’t a reality for many small business owners. 

It is our intention that with CCV’s help, our clients will grow their capacity to the point where they will no longer need our services.  In effect, they will “graduate” from us and we can continue to focus on other businesses that lack access to the capital and resources they need to grow. 

For those of you who are new to CCV here is a broad overview of the low-cost services we provide our clients:

• Business Planning and Assessments

As most small business owners know, it’s helpful to have a fresh perspective or a second opinion on your business from time to time.  CCV has experienced counselors who can help with a range of businesses from start-ups to established businesses.  Counselors can assist with business plans, financial assessments, market analysis and general strategic questions. 

• Term Loans and Contract Financing
  

CCV makes loans between $25,000 and $250,000 to small businesses that do not qualify for bank loans by weighing a variety of factors such as social impact (i.e. potential for job creation) in addition to management experience, collateral and credit history. CCV works with each of our applicants to accurately assess their financial position and potential and find a loan that can work for them. While our loans are not technically “free,” we offer competitive interest rates and low origination fees.   The “free” aspect is the guidance and counsel provided throughout the process.  After receiving a loan, CCV provides our clients with the assistance needed to properly manage their debt.  Our hope is that by going through our loan program, clients will be able to eventually secure loans from traditional financial institutions. 

• Loan Packaging

Looking for a loan can be a long process. Before you get started, CCV can help you get organized and get your financial statements up to date. When you're ready to look for a loan, our counselors can make introductions to bankers and help you find the best loan with the best rates for your situation.

• Matching Challenge Grants
  

If you've been putting off a project that you know will grow your business, but you're worried about the cost, CCV's matching Challenge Grant program can be the incentive to get you started. In partnership with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, CCV provides companies with matching funds, up to $5,000, to complete projects that will help them reach a milestone.

• Procurement Contract Assistance
  

Looking to do business with the local, state or federal government? Even with large private corporations? CCV can assist you throughout the entire bid process from identifying procurement opportunities to bid/proposal preparation.

• Access to Alternative Financial Resources

Whether it’s introductions to angel investors, structuring an equity deal, accessing alternative debt products or leveraging economic development incentives, CCV uses its network and knowledge to make difficult deals happen.  Our knowledge of the range of products available to small business owners enables us to provide guidance based in the specific needs of the business.

Check out our website for more detailed information!