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Small Business Catalyst Fund

Who this is for

Flexible capital to help established small businesses grow with confidence.

This loan is designed for small business owners who have been operating for at least one year and need capital to strengthen or expand their business.

It is available to businesses located in: Florida, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky.

What this loan offers

  • Loan amounts: $5,000–$50,000

  • Interest rate: 7.5% fixed

  • Term: 60 months

  • Predictable monthly payments with a fixed rate

How this loan can help

This loan can be used to support:

  • Working capital for day-to-day operations

  • Purchase of equipment or other capital assets

  • Refinancing existing business debt. Debt is paid directly to the creditor.

This fund is built to support stability, growth, and long-term financial health.

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

  • Time in business: At least 1 year
  • Credit score: FICO score above 600
  • Debt history:
    • No more than $3,000 in unpaid or past-due debt
    • No active bankruptcies
    • Bankruptcy must be discharged for more than 1 year for loans up to $25,000, or more than 2 years for loans up to $50,000.
    • No repossession or foreclosure completed within the last 3 years
  • Cash flow: The business must show the ability to repay through cash flow

  • Other requirements may apply

Fees to know upfront

We believe in transparency. Here are the costs associated with this loan:

  • 1% closing fee
  • $200 application fee
  • $30 direct deposit fee
  • $80 UCC filing fee
  • Florida only: State stamp tax of $0.35 per $100 borrowed

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.

Doubts?

Ready to ascend?

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.

Questions? We’re here for you. At Ascendus, we make the loan process clear, supportive, and as simple as possible—so you can focus on growing your business.

Important note: loan terms and conditions may change based on program guidelines. We’ll confirm final details during the review process.

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