GRANT · HOW TO WIN THIS
Loan amount varies; terms not publicly specified.
Rolling — no set deadline, apply anytime.
FUNDING TYPE
CDFI, Loan
CAN YOU GET THIS?
YOUR REAL ODDS
Competitiveness is unclear from public data, but CIFI positions itself as a gap filler for businesses that banks have turned away.
Because this is a loan program (not a grant) with rolling submissions, access depends on your creditworthiness and fit with their mission rather than a fixed pool of applicants competing for awards.
WHAT IT TAKES
Review loan options and confirm your business is Indiana-based and in an underserved area — 1-2 hours
Complete the business loan application on their website — A few hours to 1 day
Work with CIFI's team through their lending process (requirements review, documentation) — Ongoing, varies by complexity
WORTH KNOWING
CIFI works directly with banks and community partners to fill financing gaps, so if a bank has already referred you or declined you, that context may actually strengthen your case for a CIFI loan.
MORE LIKE THIS
Community 1st Credit Union
Varies; loan terms depend on business type and credit profile.
Iowa-based small businesses and startups can apply for business loans through this CDFI credit union on a rolling basis.
Afena Federal Credit Union
Varies; personal and business loans from $200 up to undisclosed amounts depending on product.
Small businesses and startups in Indiana can access loans through this CDFI credit union, with no stated identity restrictions.
The Bridgeway Federal Credit Union
Varies; specific loan amounts not published.
Small businesses and startups in Alabama can apply for loans on a rolling basis through this CDFI credit union.
$50B+ in available capital across grants, VC funds, CDFIs, and accelerators. Filter by your industry, stage, and region, and see everything you qualify for.
Explore the funding database →
$19/month · cancel anytime