Technical Assistance & Training
Our goal is simple: to work toward the greater good
of creating living-wage jobs.
At the Initiative Foundation, we work alongside businesses to determine their needs and provide them with the support they need to stimulate a healthy business environment. We get the job done by providing intensive one-on-one technical assistance, resource referral and general consulting to current and prospective borrowers prior to and during the loan period.
The Initiative Foundation uses a network of specialized private consultants and nonprofit technical assistance providers. These providers have a range of skills in business finance, manufacturing processes, human resources, marketing and sector-specific expertise.
A helping hand to ensure your success
Because operating climates and financial structures are unique, we work closely with borrowers, primary lenders and consultants to adapt to the specific needs of the business. For most businesses, particularly those facing severe economic struggles, we provide a level of assistance well beyond traditional lenders.
Depending on their needs, each business is eligible to receive up to $5,000 in consulting and technical assistance services. Cost sharing is determined for participating businesses based on their work plans. The technical assistance provided to these businesses typically falls into three general categories:
- Financial Analysis
- Operational Analysis
- Marketing Analysis
Scholarships also are available for business leaders to attend training and professional development sessions specific to their unique needs.
Past participants have reported the following outcomes: financing stability, decreased expenses, increased sales, sharper focus, margin and cash flow improvement, skill development and improved forecasting.
