Community Futures Peterborough Releases New Lending Guide to Help Entrepreneurs Explore Funding Options

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has released a “Roadmap to Smart Funding” guide to help entrepreneurs and small businesses make more informed financial decisions.

photo courtesy of community futures peterborough.

The guide provides a clear overview of several types of financing that entrepreneurs can explore, including business loans, lines of credit, equity investment and other capital options. Its goal is to help members of the local business community make informed decisions about how to finance their business ideas, expansions, and long-term growth.

“Many entrepreneurs know they need capital, but they aren’t always sure where to start or what type of financing is the right fit,” said Braden Clark, CFP loans manager. “This guide breaks down common funding options in plain language so business owners can better understand the tools available to them and choose the path that supports their goals.”

The guide explains key differences between funding types, including how they work, when they may be appropriate and what business owners should consider before pursuing them. By outlining these options side-by-side, the guide aims to help entrepreneurs compare approaches and identify financing solutions that align with their business model and stage of growth.

While many entrepreneurs are familiar with traditional loans, the guide also introduces other financing strategies that may support business development, such as equity partnerships, flexible financing tools and alternative capital sources.

The guide comes as a response to the uptake from both established and new entrepreneurs asking for more support with their budget, cashflow and overall financial literacy.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of Peterborough-Kawartha, and our government is committed to ensuring they have the tools to succeed,” says Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By providing expert advisory services and financial capital under one roof at Community Futures Peterborough, we are making it easier than ever for local entrepreneurs to get the support they need to grow, create jobs and strengthen our community.”

The guide is released as Community Futures Peterborough completes its fiscal year at the end of March, having issued a historic number of loans: 54 new loans to businesses and entrepreneurs in our region.

“We continue to see significant and increased demand for our services, both on the business advisory and financial advisory services,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “This guide is designed to help entrepreneurs feel confident navigating the financial side of building a business and help them feel empowered in strengthening their financial position.”

The Roadmap to Smart Funding guide can be downloaded online through the Community Futures Peterborough website. Free hard copies are also available for pick-up at the CFP office (270 George St N.) in Downtown Peterborough.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.