The SEED Loan Program is a character-based loan fund developed in partnership between Broadview Federal Credit Union and the University at Albany's Small Business Development Center and School of Business.  The program provides 10 weeks of entrepreneurial training after which the participant is eligible to pitch for a character-based loan of up to $35,000.

The SEED Loan Program was developed to provide future and existing entrepreneurs and small business owners with capital to start or expand their business.  Selection for participation in the program is based on the overall business concept, potential viability and the character of the applicant.

Throughout the program participants are supported by a dedicated business advisor from the Small Business Development Center, a dedicated MBA consultant to assist them in developing their business model and an entrepreneurship professor from the University at Albany's School of Business.

Program Mission:
SEED’s mission is to enhance the economic and social development of distressed communities in the Capital Region and Western NY by a) fostering small business and job growth through a revolving microenterprise loan fund, b) testing new character-based loan methodologies using character rather than cash, credit and collateral for low-income persons, c) providing comprehensive training in business administration and related skills prior to loan consideration and,  d) offering ongoing mentorship and peer support for entrepreneurs during training and after funding is received.