ACCESS Small Business Loan Program
Funding for Entrepreneurs Who Are Ready to Launch or GrowAccess to Capital
At ACCESS, we know that access to capital can be the difference between a business idea staying on paper and becoming a real source of income, stability, and opportunity.
That’s why we’ve reintroduced the ACCESS Small Business Loan program (SBL): a financing pathway designed for entrepreneurs who are ready to launch or grow their businesses.
This is about more than just having a good business idea: it’s about being ready for capital.
Through our partnership with Alterna Savings, eligible entrepreneurs who have completed our ACCESS Business Lab program could access loans of up to $20,000 to help launch or grow their businesses.
While lending standards are stronger than in the past, this program remains significantly more accessible and community-focused than traditional financing options.
Built for Founders
Who the ACCESS Small Business Loan Program is designed for:
Early-Stage entrepreneurs ready to launch or grow their businesses
Entrepreneurs who have completed the ACCESS Business Lab and are ready for funding
Entrepreneurs who may face barriers in accessing conventional financing
Assessing Readiness
How We Assess Loan Readiness
Every application is reviewed through a practical readiness lens focused on long-term success.
Business Viability
We assess whether the business concept has a realistic foundation, including:
- A clear product or service
- A defined target market
- Evidence of customer demand or a credible pathway to market
- Operational feasibility
Financial Readiness
We look for responsible financial planning, including:
- Realistic revenue and expense assumptions
- A loan request that matches actual business needs
- A clear and achievable repayment pathway
Founder Capability
We consider the entrepreneur behind the business, including:
- Relevant experience, skills, or transferable strengths
- Awareness of business gaps and openness to learning
- Ownership, accountability and follow-through
(Critical) Readiness for Capital
This is our most important filter:
- Will financing accelerate business success—or create unnecessary risk?
- Capital should be a growth tool, not a burden.
- Timing matters: Is this the right time to take on a business loan?
Who Can Apply
Eligibility Criteria
All applicants must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Be a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee
- Reside in Ontario
- Must have completed the ACCESS Business Lab program
- Demonstrate barriers to accessing traditional financing
- Be in good standing with CRA (or actively following a repayment arrangement)
- Not be in active bankruptcy or consumer proposal
Applicants who meet these requirements will submit:
- A business plan
- Cash flow projections
- Supporting documentation
Only screened, prepared, and funding-ready applicants move forward to formal loan review.
Helping You Succeed
More than a Loan
Unlike traditional lenders, ACCESS helps entrepreneurs prepare before financing is introduced.
Our model combines:
Business Training
Coaching & Mentorship
Business Readiness Assessment
Funding Pathway and Support
Every entrepreneur supported by ACCESS represents a household empowered, a community strengthened, and an economy made more resilient.
Take the first step
Ready to explore funding?
If you’re building a business and believe you may be ready for funding, start with the ACCESS Business Lab and let our team help you determine the right next step.
Capital works best when timing, preparation, and opportunity align.
Our Office:
401 Richmond St W Studio 374
Toronto, ON M5V 3A8
Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
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