ThriveOn Small Business Loans

Accessible business loans

Our community thrives when small businesses thrive.

Small businesses are vital to the fabric of a thriving community. The Greater Milwaukee Foundation is mobilizing another round of affordable loans to Milwaukee neighborhoods, with preference for disadvantaged businesses facing economic challenges due to rising costs and limited access to capital.

2026 ThriveOn Small Business Loans Terms

To Qualify

  • Two years of business operations 
  • Two + years management with Industry experience 
  • Physical space in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, or Waukesha counties 
  • Business is a Socially and Economically-Disadvantage Business (SEDI) as defined by U.S. Treasury Department
  • No real-estate investments or returning businesses from previous rounds
  • Prohibited businesses: alcohol, tobacco, CBD, gambling, sex-related, and weapons related industries

Loan Details

  • Loan Range: maximum loan amount - $50,000 (approval based on repayment capacity)

  • 3% fixed interest, 7-yr fully amortizing term

  • No prepayment penalty or fees

  • 6 months interest only. Monthly principal and interest payment thereafter 

Requirements

  • Full repayment required
  • Monthly business coaching sessions

  • Action plan finalized prior to any loan disbursement.

  • All required documentation must be submitted with application request.

  • Application and Personal Financial Statement must be filled out completely.

Use of Proceeds

  • Working capital, equipment and supplies purchase, debt finance, building improvements, payroll assistance, and business-related transportation vehicle

Timeline

Application opens July 6, 2026

Application closes July 20, 2026

 

How to apply

Download and complete the digital application and stand-alone personal financial statement.  

ThriveOn Small Business Loan Application

Stand-alone Personal Financial Statement

Submit your application and supporting materials to thriveonloans@greatermilwaukeefoundation.org

Note: While the application is now accessible, loan applications will not be reviewed or processed until July 6. The application period closes July 20, 2026.