Business Development Press Release 2009
Tucker Community Foundation Starts a Business Development Assistance Committee to help Businesses in Tucker County
People looking for help starting or expanding a business in Tucker County might be able to take advantage of a local “stimulus package” from the Tucker Community Foundation.
The foundation is starting a business assistance plan for entrepreneurs. Loans of up to $15,000 and grants of smaller amounts, as well as technical assistance, are possible.
“The foundation has wanted to support this portion of the community for a long time to help grow and improve Tucker County as a whole,” said Robert Burns, executive director. “In general, the foundation’s main goal is to improve the quality of life for all Tucker County citizens, and this is a new tool to accomplish that.”
The foundation’s board of directors set up an independent committee to oversee the process. Types of assistance available include working capital loans, fixed asset loans such as purchasing equipment, and technical help such as developing a business plan or incorporating.
People who want to apply for assistance must be establishing or expanding their business in Tucker County, and at least part of the project must have been unable to secure traditional financing, such as a bank loan.
Most of the assistance will be in the form of loans, although in some cases grants might be available. The committee, working with the applicant, will determine the most appropriate type of assistance.
Those interested in receiving funds should contact Burns at the foundation office at 304-478-2930 for an application. A business plan is required to participate in the loan program, but the committee may be able to provide technical assistance toward developing one.
In these difficult economic times, many new college graduates or people looking for a mid-career change might want to consider starting their own business.
“This is to help businesses that often have a tough time surviving their first few years in operation,” Burns said, “and help provide jobs for those living in or who want to move to Tucker County.”
More information about the program also will be available on the foundation Web site, www.tuckerfoundation.net
