Technical assistance is one of the defining aspects of community development lending. Rather than allowing borrowers to sink or swim on their own, CDFIs provide advice, consultation, and training in basic business practices such as accounting. For many first-time entrepreneurs, this technical assistance is as important as the loan itself.

Real stories

Jack Billman of Hillbilly Logging, started this new lumber-thinning business with a loan and technical assistance from a CDFI.