ACCESS TO CAPITAL
El Pajaro CDC’s in-house microlending program addresses the needs of aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses who struggle to access capital to start and grow their businesses. Historically, our entrepreneurs have had to rely on savings, family loans, or predatory lending to fund their ventures. We are thrilled to offer a safe and affordable loan alternative through our program, which includes technical assistance, training, and credit services.
Our entrepreneurs in 2024:
capital accessed
total loans disbursed
average loan size
%
served were women
Loan Program Overview
Our program offers loans ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 to businesses in Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties.
Types of Loans
- Loans from $5,000 – $50,000
- 5.75% interest | Up to 5-year term
- Fees: 3% Origination | Approximately $55 Closing Costs
General Eligibility Requirements*
- Valid Business License
- Valid government issued Photo ID
- No delinquent tax or child support debts without payment plans
- Business bank account
Required Applicant Documents May Include*
- Tax Returns
- Personal and Business Bank Statements
- Business Financial Statements
- Business Plan
Client Spotlight
Narez Organic Vegetables, located in Watsonville, CA, was founded in 2019 by Maria following her completion of the ALBA program. What began as a humble ½-acre endeavor has blossomed into a thriving 10-acre organic farm. Maria significantly strengthened her business operations through El Pájaro CDC’s Empresari@ Business Education Program and other core initiatives. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Maria recently secured new farmland with a crucial $30,000 loan from El Pájaro CDC. This timely support came after a major crop loss due to water issues on her previous property. The loan is vital, covering essential costs like rent, seeds, and providing crucial working capital to support her growing team and ensure a successful farming season.
Meet the Loan Program Team
Juan Melgar
Director of Lending
Email: juan@elpajarocdc.org
Gerardo Rodriguez
Loan Officer
Email: grodriguez@elpajarocdc.org
Griselda Solis
Loan Officer
Email: Griselda@elpajarocdc.org
El Pájaro CDC Reserves the right to change the terms listed above, and therefore these serve as a reference point. Please contact El Pájaro CDC for the most up-to-date loan information and availability.
Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license, 10 CCR §1550(a).
23 East Beach Street, Suite #209
Watsonville, CA 95076
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday : 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Phone: (831) 722-1224
Fax: (831) 722-3128
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
Accommodation for individuals with a disability will be made. Please notify a staff member of your needs in advance.
© El Pájaro Community Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All rights reserved.