Bridging The Gap In
Small Business
Lending
Flexible capital to help Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities in Alaska grow and thrive.
CILC provides small business financing for start-ups and existing businesses owned by Native individuals or serving Native communities across Alaska, with loans up to $250,000 for:
What We Offer:
Working Capital
Start-Up Costs
Equipment or Inventory
Business Expansion
Who Qualifies
As a Native CDFI, CILC supports Native communities in Alaska. Beginning December 1, 2025, our small business loans are only available to:
Businesses with at least 51% ownership by an Alaska Native, American Indian, or Native Hawaiian business owners OR
Businesses physically located within a qualifying Native Area
Check if your business address is in a qualifying Native Area:
Open the CDFI Fund CIMS Mapping Tool.
Select "2020 IA Eligible Native Areas".
Enter the business address.
If the map highlights the area in purple, it may be eligible.
CILC is unable to fund projects involving illegal activity or high risk enterprises. Examples include gun shops, gambling or controlled substances. If you are unsure, ask us. We will let you know quickly.
If you have any questions, contact us and we would be happy to discuss your eligibility further.
Getting Started
If you appear eligible, we will invite you to begin the loan application. You do not need everything completed at once. Our staff can help you prepare what is needed.
Among other documents, you may be asked for:
A simple business plan or project summary
Personal tax returns
Business tax returns and financial statements (for existing businesses)
Financial projections (for start-up businesses)
Do not worry if you do not have everything ready. We can support you through the process.
Get In Touch
Have questions or ready to explore financing? Our team can help you review eligibility and next steps.
