Claudia Romero, Pega Grill >
Florida State Small Business Credit Initiative
Unlock Funding for Your Small Business in Florida
Ascendus’ Florida Program provides accessible and flexible financing to support the growth and success of small businesses across the state. Whether you need working capital, equipment, or funding for renovations, we’re here to help.
Who this loan is for:
This program is designed for established small businesses operating in Florida that are ready to invest in growth and long-term stability.
To qualify, businesses must:
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Be located and operating in Florida
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Have been in operation for at least 1 year
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Generate less than $5 million in annual revenue in at least one of the last three fiscal years
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Have fewer than 50 employees
What this loan offers:
- Loan amounts: $5,000–$100,000
- Interest rate: 8.99%
- Term: Up to 60 months
- Fixed payments to support predictable cash flow
How this loan can help:
Funds may be used for:
- Working capital
- Franchise fees
- Equipment, inventory, or services used to produce or deliver goods
- Construction, renovation, or tenant improvements. Not for passive real estate investment
This program is built to support real business activity and operational growth.
Before you apply
If you found Ascendus through an online search, we ask that you first connect with a local business resource partner before applying.
Partners like an SBDC, bank, or community organization can help you prepare a stronger application and improve your chances of success.
Clients who take this step are typically better prepared for the loan process.
Once you’ve worked with a partner, you can move forward with your application.
Just include their name when asked “How did you hear about us?”
Need help finding one? Find your local SBDC
What to expect:
To be eligible, businesses must meet the following requirements:
- Credit score: FICO score of 575 or higher
- US Citizenship or Uncoditional Permanent Residency required for all owners
- Debt history:
- No more than $3,000 in unpaid or past-due debt
- No active bankruptcies
- Bankruptcy must be discharged for more than 2 years
- No repossession or foreclosure completed within the last 3 years
- Ownership: Owners with 20% or more ownership must provide a personal guarantee
- Compliance: Business must be in good standing with Florida state agencies
Fees to know upfront:
We believe in transparency. Here are the costs associated with this loan:
- $200 application fee
- Closing fee:
- 5% for loans under $20,000
- 4% for loans over $20,000
- $30 direct deposit fee
- $80 UCC filing fee
- Florida stamp tax: $0.35 per $100 borrowed (or portion thereof)
- Vehicle purchases only: $150 DMV fee if loan funds are used to purchase a vehicle
No cost to apply online. These fees are included in the loan and only apply if the loan is approved and disbursed. There are no out-of-pocket expenses during the application process.
“I am incredibly happy, and my family is happy. My daughter loves that she can say, ‘can you pick me up from school?’ and I can finally say yes.” — Kaisha Rodriguez, Le Massage de Kai, Boston MA
Since my first loan with Ascendus, I have increased my staff, the number of children I can serve, and raised my credit score by 90 points.
Ascendus has really gotten me into a good habit of keeping up with my finances, making sure I’m noting what’s going out the door and what’s coming in. It’s been a really great learning experience that’s given me confidence and consistency.
You guys are amazing. Very reliable. I can rely on you all. Like if I need help I could definitely depend on you guys.
