Kiva Microloans and Funding Paths for Small Businesses

Explore Kiva's 0% microloans and connect with lenders to understand financing options and steps to grow your small business.

Securing financing for your business can be challenging, but every successful business begins with a first step. Following the State of Small Business in Austin panel discussion, join Austin Economic Development for Microloans and Finding Paths for Small Businesses, in the Pecan-Cypress Rooms at the Norris Conference Centers. This session is designed to help Austin entrepreneurs advance their funding journey.

We’ll begin with an introduction to the Austin Kiva Hub and 0% interest microloans, an effective resource for early-stage businesses. Whether you are launching a new venture or building your foundation, Kiva can help open doors to future opportunities.

After the presentation, you’ll have the chance to meet directly with local Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). Learn what lenders look for, ask questions, and get practical guidance on preparing for future financing. This is a unique opportunity to understand the full landscape of capital—from microloans to bank loans—and how businesses can move up that ladder over time.

Not every business is ready for traditional financing, and that’s okay. Come connect, learn, and take the next step toward funding your business’s growth.

Who Should Attend

• Early‑stage entrepreneurs exploring first funding options
• Small business owners preparing for future financing
• Founders not yet ready for traditional bank loans
• Anyone curious about microloans, CDFIs, or alternative lending paths
• Austin entrepreneurs seeking direct connections with lenders and capital resources

Join us to connect, learn, and take the next step toward funding your business’s growth.

What You'll Learn

• Learn how small businesses progress through various stages of financing
• Explore Kiva’s 0% interest microloan program
• Connect with lenders who support Austin entrepreneurs
• Understand what financial institutions look for in loan applications
• Get actionable insights to prepare for your next funding opportunity

Take the first step in your capital journey. 

👉 Register today to empower your business to grow.

Don’t forget to check out the additional sessions offered by Austin Economic Development throughout Austin Small Business Week.