Beautify Your Business: Community Futures Chinook partners with the MD

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Small businesses in the Municipal District (MD) of Taber have a unique opportunity to enhance their storefronts and boost their curb appeal, thanks to the Business Beautification Loan Program. This innovative initiative, a partnership between the MD of Taber, the Town of Taber, and Community Futures Chinook, is designed to help local entrepreneurs invest in their businesses while easing financial strain.

“This program is all about beautifying the downtown region and supporting our local entrepreneurs,” says Alvaro Mendes, Executive Director of Community Futures Chinook. “It’s a win-win for businesses and the community.”

The program offers up to $10,000 in funding, with 20 per cent provided as a grant and the remaining 80 per cent as an interest-free loan. For example, if a business owner’s renovation costs $5,000, they could receive $1,000 as a grant and the remaining $4,000 as a no-interest loan. The MD of Taber and the Town of Taber cover the interest, making the loan completely interest-free for participants.

For small business owners, cash flow is often a major challenge. Mendes highlights the program’s financial benefits, “Free money is a big deal for small businesses. The grant portion doesn’t need to be paid back, and the loan portion is interest-free. That’s a huge relief for cash flow, allowing businesses to invest in things like signage, painting, or other improvements without the burden of high monthly payments.”

When asked what he would say to business owners who are hesitant to apply, Mendes is clear, “If you’re on the fence, give us a call. We’re happy to explain the program and how it can help you. Free money and interest-free loans are rare opportunities. This program can help you expand your store, move from a home-based business, or meet other milestones.”

To apply, business owners can visit the Community Futures Chinook website or download the application and submit it via email at Chinook@albertacf.com.

Eligibility criteria include:

• The business must be located in a rural community in Alberta.

• The applicant must be involved in the day-to-day operations of the business.

• Applicants must be of legal age and Canadian residents.

• Applicants must first approach a bank for financing. If they are unable to secure reasonable terms, they can then apply for the beautification loan.

Community Futures aims to provide decisions on loan applications within 10 business days of receiving all required documents.

For more information, visit mdtaber.ab.ca/p/beautification-program. To learn more about how Community Futures Chinook is supporting businesses in the MD of Taber, visit chinook.albertacf.com.

Don’t miss this chance to beautify your business and strengthen your community. As Mendes puts it, “Where else can you get free money and an interest-free loan? This is an opportunity you don’t want to pass up.”