Think Local First

Small Business Development

Putting resources in the hands of entrepreneurs so that small businesses thrive.

LEDC has many services that help current and prospective entrepreneurs develop small businesses in a vibrant, multicultural community.  Whether entrepreneurs are working out a new idea or expanding an existing operation, LEDC is ready to help entrepreneurs in the development of their business.
 
Micro-loan Program.  As a certified Community Development Financial Institution, LEDC provides micro-loans of up to $50,000 to start-ups and existing businesses that have difficulty obtaining credit from mainstream financial institutions. 

Business Training. LEDC offers in-depth courses and workshops for entrepreneurs who want to hone their business skills in areas such as conducting a feasibility study, business planning, marketing strategies, website design, accounting, recordkeeping, taxes and more!

Small Business Assistance Program. LEDC works with entrepreneurs one-on-one to refine their business plans, prepare their income taxes, obtain business licenses, and access additional resources, such as professional links to legal assistance, marketing consulting, accountants and real property searches.

Individual Development Accounts. LEDC helps clients save money for starting a business by enrolling them in Individual Development Accounts, where they can receive matching grants on money they save towards starting a business or buying their first home. 
 
Storefront Improvement. LEDC administers a storefront improvement program funded by the DC Government’s Department of Housing and Community Development.  The goal of the program is to improve the physical appearance of largely Latino business corridors, making them more attractive to shoppers and new investment, thus increasing wealth and employment opportunities.
 
Local First Business Alliances. LEDC organizes small businesses in the District of Columbia and Maryland so that they may take cooperative action to access resources and services, advocate for improved policies, and improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. As part of this work, we founded the Think Local First campaign, which promotes small businesses among consumers, stimulating the local economy.