Fairfax County announced that ECDC Enterprise Development Group (EDG) will manage an expansion of the Fairfax County Microloan Program to support early-stage ventures and local small businesses. Funded by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA), this county initiative provides business microloans—which are small, short-term loans designed for startups and small businesses that typically cannot qualify for traditional bank financing. These specialized loans bridge the initial funding gap for founders and historically underserved entrepreneurs, providing the immediate working capital needed for equipment, inventory, or startup costs. 

To ensure these businesses achieve long-term stability, EDG will oversee the scaling up of the program's reach and offer technical assistance alongside direct funding, including one-on-one business coaching, financial literacy training, credit-building programs, free tax preparation, and professional development workshops.

This strategic expansion underscores the county's broader economic goal of fostering an inclusive, resilient business environment by investing in grassroots entrepreneurship. The initiative combines affordable capital with comprehensive, hands-on mentorship to address the financial and educational roadblocks that often prevent small enterprises from growing successfully. 

Local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs throughout Fairfax County are encouraged to explore these newly expanded resources or submit a loan application at www.edgus.org.

Expanded Program Services Include:

•    Flexible Funding Solutions: Small business loans and microloans tailored specifically for new startups and independent local entrepreneurs.
•    Dedicated Professional Mentorship: Personalized, one-on-one business coaching and structured business incubation support to guide early-stage growth.
•    Financial & Operational Training: Educational courses covering financial literacy and credit building, supplemented by free tax preparation assistance.

More business resources to establish, expand and evolve your small business can also be found at Fairfax County's small business hub: Fairfax CORE