SouthStar CDC has arranged a special presentation by the Atlanta MicroFund for residents of the Porch Press area. The free seminar will be held on November 8th, 2007 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall of Martha Brown United Methodist Church. The Atlanta Micro Fund (AMF) is nonprofit agency devoted to assisting small and home-based business owners in and around Atlanta by providing small amounts loan capital to support most business needs. Loan applicants can apply for loans up to $10,000 to launch or expand a small or home-based business in the metropolitan Atlanta area. Established in 1999 as an outreach program of AHAND (Atlanta Housing Association of Neighborhood Based Developers), the AMF has assisted many business owners through its loan program. A testament to the value of the resources offered by the AMF comes in the form of some of its diverse clientele. Current client Toni Hill’s passion for business started out as book retailing and now has evolved into small enterprise including lawn care and vending. Toni received his first loan from the AMF during 2003 for $500 to purchase book inventory, which he quickly sold. He has to date received four loans totaling over $15,000 to expand his enterprise. Toni stated, “With the AMF’s financial support, I was able to obtain small loans which enabled me to expand my enterprise faster.” Another client, Ashley Richardson, launched a business in automotive repair. Mr. Richardson quickly discovered how difficult it is to obtain a small business loan due to his lack of personal credit. A City of Atlanta employee referred him to the AMF. After completing the AMF orientation and application process, Mr. Richardson received a $3,500 loan to purchase a hydraulic lift. Having this additional equipment made it easier to perform certain jobs underneath vehicles. Mr. Richardson stated, “Having the new equipment allowed me to exceed my first year’s revenue projections by 12%.” Other past clients have included an artist who needed a laminating machine, the owner of a convenience store who needed air conditioning and an ongoing relationship with a moving company expanding to a fleet of trucks. Individuals that attend the seminar will gain information about the small business loan program, terms, interest rates, review process and most importantly how to apply. This is an adult program and child care will not be provided. The seminar will be held on Nov 8, 2007 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at Martha Brown United Methodist Church. Parking is located behind the Church and is entered from Metropolitan Avenue. If you are planning to attend the seminar, please RSVP to Marvin Bryant at mbryantahand.org or by calling 678-539-6900 ext 24.

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