NBD FAQ

Common questions about Neighborhood Business Districts

How do I start a neighborhood business district group or Business Improvement Area (BIA)?

Chamber and Merchant Associations are started by business people interested in connecting to other business owners to share information, improve the business area and address common interests. We encourage you to contact your business neighbors to meet to discuss common interests. Staff from OED can meet with this group to help you connect with City and community resources to help achieve your goals.

Many business areas explore the possibility of starting a business improvement area (BIA). A BIA provides a source to fund improvements in neighborhood business districts by assessing property and/or business owners who benefits from the improvements. BIA funds can be used for services such as parking, joint marketing, cleanup and maintenance, security, special events, beautification, and management and administration. See the BIA section for more details.

Where can I find start-up money or other financial assistance for my business?

Community Capital Development (CCD) provides small business loans through the Seattle Economic Development Fund (SEDF). CCD's Seattle Business Assistance Center provides services for small businesses at every level from start-up, to rapid expansion, to controlled growth, to sustained profitability. On-site counselors provide consultation to small businesses. Phone (206) 324-4330 ext.100.

ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia offers small business loans and technical assistance to low-income entrepreneurs. Phone (206) 447-9226.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers small business loans. Call (206) 553-7311.

Washington CASH provides training and lending services for low-income women, people with disabilities, immigrants and other low-income individuals to help them start or expand their own business.

The Alliance of Angels is a regionally-focused group of individual investors and representatives of investment corporations that acts as a "matchmaker" for young technology companies and interested investors. Call (206) 389-7261.

The Office of Economic Development's Community Development Loan Program provides low-rate loans to large projects that meet federal eligibility criteria and the program's national objectives under federal block grant guidelines. Funding may be available for construction bridge financing, low-income housing development projects and site acquisition through Section 108 Loans and Float Loans. For more information on float loans, contact Ken Takahashi, Real Estate Finance Manager, at (206) 684-8378 or email Ken.