Q – What services does ICFA provide?

A. – The International Center for Assistance, Inc. (ICFA) provides the following services to small business owners:

          1.  One-on-one technical assistance

          2.  Consulting and meeting facilitation

          3.  Business and Management Training

          4.  Credit Counseling

          5.  Access to capital (we write and package loans)

          6.  Follow-up counseling

 

Q. – Does ICFA, Inc. assist all businesses?

A. - ICFA, Inc. specializes in working with minority, women and veteran business owners. However our mission is “to increase the success and health of all small businesses”.  Therefore, we do assist ALL small business owners.  However, the costs and benefits provided to each business are directly related to ICFA, Inc. funding sources and government programs.  Some business owners may pay some fees, while others have some fees subsidized.

     

Q. – What areas does ICFA, Inc. service?

A. – Currently, ICFA, Inc. is certified as a Technical Assistance Provider in various states.  We build collaborative relationships with other non-profit organizations to provide a comprehensive technical assistance and training program for entrepreneurs.  ICFA, Inc. is also certified to write business loans anywhere in the United States .

   

Q. – Will ICFA, Inc. write a business plan for our organization?

A. – No.  ICFA, Inc. believes that the business owner needs to write their own business plan so that they can execute it!  They know their industry best and have the vision for their company.   We will however provide guidance and review of the plan.

   

Q. – Can ICFA, Inc. help our business obtain larger loans than $5, $10 or $15K?

A. – Yes.  ICFA, Inc. can assist with loan packaging and finding the loan or loans that will provide the necessary capital for business growth.

 

Q. – Can a non-profit organization apply for a business loan?

A. – No.  Non-profits are excluded from applying for small business loans through ICFA, Inc.  Business loans are for For-Profit entities.  However, ICFA, Inc. will provide some information on where to search for grants and how to obtain grant funding.

 

Q. – Does ICFA, Inc. provide grants to businesses?

A. – No.  ICFA, Inc. does not provide ANY grants to either For-Profit or Non-Profit organizations.  We only provide business loans to For-Profit organizations.

 

 Q. - What if I am NOT a U.S. citizen?  Can I still apply for a loan?

A. - Yes.  However, you must provide a legal documentation such as a Green Card or Permanent Resident Card at the time of the loan application.  The loan processing time will take approximately two (2) weeks longer because the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) must provide the necessary clearance.