Whether you’re a startup looking for initial capital or an established business seeking to expand, our tailored financing solutions and technical assistance programs are here to help. We provide access to competitive funding options, including low-interest loans and grants, designed to support your business at every stage. Our expert advisors offer personalized guidance to help you navigate complex challenges, streamline operations, and adopt the latest technologies. From strategic planning to digital transformation, we’re committed to empowering your business growth and ensuring long-term success.
BDCC offers financing and guidance for Southern Vermont’s local businesses. BDCC’s business services are guided by the regional economic development plan (CEDS) to advance strategies that foster an entrepreneurial environment, support small businesses, increase access to capital, and build an inclusive and equitable economy. Need working capital? Debt refinancing? Want to buy equipment or even a new facility, but a traditional bank loan isn’t an option? That’s why we are here, with business lending products and professional advice to help you succeed. Our loan programs are supported by agencies such as the USDA and SBA and local program initiatives such as the Windham County Economic Development Council. Check out our wide variety of business financing options below.
KIVA
“KIVA” is a crowdfunding platform, with a zero percent interest rate and a maximum $10,000 amount. The platform is provided through partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), KIVA and BDCC. We can help you navigate KIVA for your funding needs.
US SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA) & RURAL MICROENTREPRENEUR ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (RMAP)
BDCC offers technical assistance to borrowers, helping them develop business plans and financial systems to ensure success with these loan programs.
WINDHAM COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (WCEDP)
Supports job creation and business growth in Windham County by offering funding for start-ups, expansions, and relocations. With a focus on entrepreneurial activity and private sector job retention, WCEDP aligns with the Southern Vermont CEDS to strengthen the region’s economic foundation. Funding is available as low-interest loans and investments, administered by BDCC.
WINDHAM INVESTMENT FUND
The Windham Investment Fund supports businesses at various stages of growth via unique funding options such as royalty financing, interest-only loans, equity investments, or preferred equity arrangements.
NONPROFIT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR FUNDING AND LOAN SUPPORT
We offer support specifically tailored to nonprofit organizations, particularly around capacity building and nonprofit service development. For general assistance—such as board development, strategic planning, and grant-readiness—Meg and our nonprofit support partners can guide you through available resources and next steps. However, if your needs involve managing the business side of your nonprofit, such as financial forecasting or seeking loan support, our business technical assistance team is here for you too. In those cases, we recommend connecting directly with Anthony, who can provide specialized help in navigating financial tools and capital readiness for nonprofits.
FUNDING FUNDAMENTALS
From understanding the Five C’s of Credit to preparing a winning business plan, learn the the questions you should be asking before you ever apply. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your pitch, this guide will help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
BDCC BIZGROWTH
Looking to grow, relocate, or scale your business in Southern Vermont? BDCC’s BizGrowth services offer expert guidance, access to funding, and customized support to help businesses of all sizes navigate resources, connect with strategic partners, and reach their next stage of success. Learn how we can help you build your roadmap to growth.
BDCC NEXT
Planning for business succession or exploring ownership opportunities? BDCC Next offers specialized services to support transitions, from exit planning to buyer readiness and cooperative formation. Discover how our expert guidance and new USDA-backed initiatives are helping keep rural businesses thriving.
BDCC LAUNCH
This program is an entrepreneurship initiative designed to help early-stage business founders in Southeastern Vermont move from idea to action. It combines education, mentorship, and community-building to support individuals as they develop and grow their business concepts.
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT
Whether you’re launching a new venture, expanding your footprint, or looking for a strategic location, we’re here to help you find the right fit.
CONNECT DIRECTLY TO LOCAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE SERVICES
Need help connecting with services essential for rural businesses? BDCC provides the expertise and resources necessary to navigate challenges, build capacity, and achieve sustainable growth. As a key provider of technical assistance in Southeastern Vermont, BDCC offers guidance in business planning, financing, and workforce development,ensuring local businesses have the tools to succeed in a competitive economy.
LOCAL SERVICE REFERRALS
Whether you need assistance with business or transition planning, financial statements, or finding a reliable bookkeeper or CPA, BDCC connects you with expert advisors and tailored support. In addition to being a storehouse of information about local professional service providers, BDCC refers and supports businesses in the region to connect to both SCORE and VT SBDC to ensure that you have experienced business mentors who can provide valuable insights to help your business grow successfully.
Contact us for help finding the following services below.
BDCC BIZCONNECT
A free monthly meetup series designed to connect rural business owners and entrepreneurs in Vermont’s Windham Region, fostering community and peer support to collaboratively address common challenges.
BDCC LAUNCH
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a growing small business, BDCC Launch offers the resources, mentorship, and connections needed to help you take bold steps forward. This includes Launch Pad, a free, six-week series designed to help entrepreneurs test, plan, and execute business ideas through expert guidance and group consulting sessions.
HELPFUL LINKS
Whether you’re looking for business technical assistance providers, local professional service providers, workforce development tools, funding resources, or local economic data, these links provide quick access to valuable regional and statewide information.
WINDHAM REGION LEARNING ESSENTIALS CALENDAR
A centralized hub for workshops, trainings, and educational events designed to support workforce and business development across Southeastern Vermont.
Start by filling out our BDCC Assistance & Lending Inquiry Form today!
QUESTIONS? REACH OUT TO ANTHONY!
Need help growing, selling, or taking over a business? Contact Anthony Toscano, BDCC’s Business Solutions and Transitions Manager, for expert guidance and personalized support to navigate your next steps with confidence.
