Access to Capital: Real Conversations with Lenders

Getting money for your business can feel confusing and frustrating. Many entrepreneurs apply for funding and get denied—without knowing why. This workshop helps clear up the confusion.

Join us for an open and honest conversation between business owners and lenders about how funding really works. You’ll learn what lenders look for, why applications get approved or denied, and what you can do now to be more ready for capital. You’ll also hear real stories from entrepreneurs who have been through the process and ask your own questions in a supportive space.

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Understand what lenders look for when deciding who gets funding
• Learn common reasons business funding applications are denied
• Get clear on different types of business funding available
• Learn simple steps to prepare their business for funding
• Learn how to build relationships with lenders before applying

Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about applying for funding soon, this workshop will help you understand the steps and avoid common mistakes.

• Harvey Smith, Relationship Manager at ECDI
• Jessica Cuffia-Corlette, SVP, Emerging Middle Market Leader at Fifth Third Bank
• Darryl Collins, VP, Financial Center Manager at Fifth Third Bank

The Economic & Community Development Institute's Women's Business Centers of Ohio guide individuals at any stage of the business process. Through one-on-one counseling sessions with WBC staff and volunteers, you can get the direction and resources to meet your goals. Business advisers want to help you successfully start a business, or grow and expand your existing business -- increasing revenue and creating jobs for the local economy.

The WBCs present training workshops regularly to provide access to small business knowledge at no charge. They are the only SBA-funded Women's Business Centers in the state.

Funded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.

Women's Business Center

Federal Share- 50%- $150,000

Non-Federal Share- 50%- $150,000

Total Program Cost: $300,000

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Women's Business Center of Northern Ohio