Customized Financing Options

The WWCFDC provides customized financing for viable business projects in the startup, relocation, stabilization, or expansion stage. Repayable loans and equity investments in amounts up to $150,000 are available to new and existing rural businesses located in the Region of Waterloo and the County of Wellington.

We are not in competition with the chartered banking system or other commercial lenders. Our financing can be independent of, or in partnership with, other financial institutions when traditional financing is unavailable or insufficient.

All information provided to staff in the process of counselling or applying for financial assistance will be held in the strictest confidence.

Click here for information about our application process.

Consultation & Advisory Services

Is your business just starting out? Maybe you have a great business idea but need connections to move things forward?

Our objective is to provide you with information on government programs, publications, and preliminary counseling assistance at no cost. This consultation service is aimed at providing assistance that will enable you to then proceed with your own business planning, moving on to acquiring professional consultants, or joining our Business Excellence Training Program.

Our staff is knowledgeable about the local market-place and understands the challenges faced by your business. We can assist you in planning a startup, direct you to available federal, provincial and local expertise, and can assist you in translating your research into reality. Whether or not you are seeking to access financing from us, we can assist you in the development and execution of your business plan.

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Additional Financing Options

If your business’ needs extend beyond the financing available through the WWCFDC, you may be eligible for funding from the Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII). This funding supports the growth of knowledge-based industry in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) through the provision of loans and addressing all aspects of innovate SME growth challenges. Knowledge-based industry includes, but is not limited to, firms involved in pharmaceuticals, health biotech, new materials, telecommunications, information technology, software, medical equipment, and avionics.

SOFII has been developed to be a long-term sustainable fund offering a stable source of capital for SMEs. Loan size will range from $150,000 to $500,000, with an assumption that the average loan size is approximately $250,000. For more information about SOFII, click here.