How we help

Grow Together

Loans for Small Businesses

The Willsboro Development Corporation’s Loan Committee shall review all applications for loans and grants presented to the Corporation. The review shall be completed in depth and with expediency and report the recommendation for approval to the Board of Directors for finality. 

Get in touch to Apply

WHAT TO EXPECT

FAQ's about our loans for small businesses:

  • Who can apply?

    A. Any person(s) or business with a business plan who has applied to other lending agencies without success may apply to the Willsboro Development Corporation by submitting the required paperwork as requested by this committee. 


    B. Any person(s) or business that does not qualify to apply to a lending agency may submit a request to this committee for review of eligibility for financial assistance.

  • What are the eligibility requirements?

    A. Projects financed through Willsboro Development Corporation should demonstrate positive economic development impact through either or a combination of the following:

    a. Job creation or retention

    b. Provision of essential or unique services

    c. Activities that revitalize or stabilize the Willsboro or Essex area.


    B. Targeted types of business include fledging, start up, agriculture, small business, commercial and industrial enterprises.


  • What can the loans be used on?

    Loan  funds may be used for the following:

    1. Working Capital (including inventory)

    2. Purchase of machinery and equipment

    3. Land and/or building acquisition or improvement

    4. Renovation and/or additions to facilities


    Housing and real estate speculation projects will not be considered for financing.   

  • Is there a limit for the loans?

    The maximum per borrower is $50,000.

  • Anything else I should know?

    Absolutely - It's best to reach out to us if you are interested in receiving a loan from the WDC.

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Case Studies

Real examples of how we've helped

PAPA DUKE'S BBQ

Expansion Support

LOCAL BBQ. LOCAL FAVorite.

"In 2023 we made the decision to convert our carriagehouse into a commercial kitchen. As the project progressed it became apparent to us that a full restoration of the building was necessary. The cost of the renovation was more than twice our budget. We reached out to WDC. They were very receptive to the project and offered us immediate financing. This allowed the project to continue with no delays. We opened the commissary on schedule with full approval from NYS department of health. We are so appreciative of WDC and what they offer to our community."


Christina & Michael McCauliffe

Owners

PAPA DUKE'S BBQ

Willsboro, NY

WORKING CAPITAL

BRINGING LOCAL GOODS TO THE NATION

“The Willsboro Development Corporation has been instrumental in the success of Dak Bar Whole Foods. They provided working capital during off season months that allowed the business to continue to purchase inventory and supplies when sales revenue was low. The company is now in its 15th year of operation and continues to grow toward its goal of being a national brand. This would not have been possible without the help of the WDC in its early years. It was a pleasure to work with the Board members, who were always very friendly and approachable, and personally care about the vitality of small businesses in their own community. We are so fortunate to have the WDC as a local business development resource that is dedicated to helping small businesses thrive.”


Susie Smith

President & CEO

Dak Bar Whole Foods, Inc.

Essex, NY

DAK BAR

Helping Grow Your Business

Small business Mentorship

Are you a new entrepreneur looking for some guidance on your start-up? Are you looking to expand your current business into a new area? We can match you with where you are in your business journey with an experienced business owner that's ready to help guide you through the challenges you face with a mentor/mentee relationship.

Interested?  Get in Touch

Helping FUND Your EXPANSION

Grant opportunities

Are you an applying for a grant and need a letter of support? Are you looking for grant opportunities that could help grow or start your business? We try to keep track of local and state opportunities that our members can benefit from. Contact us to learn more.

Stay up to date on local business events, opportunities and more.

Become a member of the Essex/Willsboro Development Corporation.

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