Funding Types & Incentives

Access to capital and incentives

Funding Sources and Incentives

Here are some ways to get additional money if you need it:

Funding Search Tool

Many local, state, and federal agencies provide other tax credits, loans and grants. Some of these offerings are targeted for certain types of businesses.

City Loans

The City of Long Beach has several loan programs for small businesses. City loans are based on the quality of your business plan as well as your resume and other personal qualifications. Credit score is part of the decision, but a low credit score might not prevent you from getting a loan.

Before applying for a City loan, you should obtain a copy of your credit report to check your credit status. Once a year, you can get a free copy of your credit report

Since City loan programs are federally funded, all tax liens must be addressed/cured before submitting an loan application.

Sources and Uses of Funds

When applying for loans, you’ll need to show how you intend to use the money. Here’s an example of how to show that in a chart:

Sources City Loan Owner's Equity Total
$35,000 $10,000 $45,000
Uses
Working Capital $10,000 $5,000 $15,000
Machinery, Equipment, Fixtures, and Furniture $20,000 $20,000
Tenant Improvement $5,000 $5,000
Inventory $5,000
Total $35,000 $10,000 $45,000

Kiva Loan Program

The City of Long Beach has partnered with The Los Angeles Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LA LISC) to offer zero interest loans to local business owners. Through Kiva, everyday residents can loan as little as $25 to small businesses of their choice as part of a crowdfunded loan program. Loans are approved through “social underwriting,” where trustworthiness is determined by friends and family lending a portion of the loan request and a by a Kiva approved Trustee who will vouch for the borrower. LA LISC will match loan contributions made to borrowers who have been endorsed by a Trustee.

Loan Amount: $500-$10,000

Term: 6-36 months

Rate: 0%

Contact: Jeremy.Stumpp@longbeach.gov

(562) 570-6725

Grants

Grants are money given to you that you do not have to pay back. The money is sometimes restricted to certain uses, like repainting the front of a store or buying better equipment. Some grants are given in cash, while others pay you back (“reimburse” you) for money that you spend.

Commercial Improvement Rebate Program

This provides rebates of up to $2,000 per business to commercial property owners and business owners to improve the exterior of their commercial properties along designated business corridors. Exterior improvements such as painting, signage, exterior tile or brick veneer, window replacement and security lights are some of the businesses favorite exterior improvements. Pre-approval is required for all proposed improvements.

California Business Incentives Gateway

The California Business Incentives Gateway (CBIG) is a groundbreaking tool from the State Treasurer's Offices that brings together all of the state and local business development incentives to a single access point.

The incentives, detailed here, include site selection services, targeted tax breaks, training grants, fee waivers, permit assistance, low-cost or tax exempt financing, reduced utility rates, employee recruitment, and many other.

Foreign Trade Zone Benefits

Foreign Trade Zones are designated areas within the United States where qualifying businesses are considered to be outside the country for customs purposes. Approved companies within a Foreign Trade Zone can defer, reduce or completely eliminate customs duties on imported products and materials.

Under the Port of Long Beach's program, any qualified business within the boundaries of FTZ-50, which includes Orange County, western San Bernardino County and most of Los Angeles County, can apply to have its existing building designated as an FTZ site.

Federal Loans

Fill out a short questionnaire and you can be matched with participating SBA Lenders through the LINC (Leveraging Information and Networks to access Capital) online referral tool. Submit your loan needs and LINC will connect you with lending partners and the SBA-backed financing programs to help get your business off the ground.

Private Loans

Many banks will also give loans to small businesses. The requirements for these loans may be more demanding and interest rates may also be higher. We encourage you to contact your bank for current rates and terms.

Documentation for approaching lenders

Make sure to bring your tax returns and a copy of your business plan. We recommend separating your personal versus business expenses.