The RISE Microloan Program

The Rotary Investing & Supporting Equity Microloan Program provides financial support, training, and mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs in Kansas City, helping to break down racial, social, and economic barriers.

In partnership with the Rotary Club of Kansas City-Plaza, CHES, Inc., and AltCap, this program equips individuals with the resources they need to launch and sustain successful businesses. By combining microloans, business education, and community support, the RISE Microloans program empowers entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality.

RISE Microloan info

  • The RISE Microloan Program collaborates with organizations like The Sewing Labs, Determination Inc., KC G.I.F.T., Urban Ranger Corps, and Pawsperity to provide economic opportunity, jobs, and dignity to aspiring entrepreneurs.

    RISE Microloans provide funding from AltCap, credit-building tools and training from CHES, Inc., and community support from the Rotary Club of Kansas City Plaza—helping entrepreneurs close the opportunity gap, achieve their goals, and create jobs for economic stability.

    • Credit Building resources

    • Mentorship

    • Business Model Development

    • Accessible small business loans

  • Upon successful completion of your program, reach out to CHES Inc. to begin your business plan. Once they've approved it, apply for a microloan with AltCap.

    Qualified candidates will receive low-barrier access to credit; certain other candidates missing minor requirements for funding will be eligible for further technical assistance through CHES Inc.

  • Anyone seeking technical assistance (i.e. business coaching, business development opportunities) must first complete the loan application. In the application, you will find an opportunity to express interest in technical assistance programs. Technical assistance is available whether you qualify for a loan or not.

  • - Origination fee of 5%.

    - Monthly $15 servicing fee on all loans to cover administrative costs.

    - Other fees may include UCC filings, vehicle lien filings, or title recording fees.

  • Interested candidates will apply for a RISE microloan. Our loan team will evaluate applicants for technical assistance readiness and refer to our community partners on a case-by-case basis.

    • Ensure your financial statements are up to date, accurate, and clearly reflect an understanding of your business operations.

    • Craft a detailed and well-supported plan for how you will use the funds. This should include the projected return on investment, whether through potential revenue growth or operational efficiencies.

    • Prioritize building relationships with your lenders by maintaining open communication and demonstrating a track record of reliability — this can significantly enhance your chances of loan approval.

    • Explore all your options, whether they involve traditional bank loans, SBA loans, or specialized industry-specific funding programs.

    • Maintain liquidity and reduce existing liabilities whenever possible to improve the overall financial health of your business and make it more attractive to lenders.

  • Applicants will need:

    • Proof of license, insurance, and that your business is in good legal standing.

    • Schedule of work and payment schedules at underwriting.

    • You need to sign an agreement if you are entering into a Technical Assistance partnership.

    Personal Documentation

    • Two forms of ID (each signer) – One with a picture other with a name only

    Business Documentation

    • Business Plan (if the business is under one year in operation)

    Applicants with existing businesses will also be required to submit (if applicable): tax forms, financial statements, and organizational documents.

    Financial Documentation

    • Two years of personal tax returns including all schedules and 1099s

    • Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement (projections)

    • Business Debt Schedule

    • Last three months of personal and business bank statements. Startups should provide a business plan and financial projections in lieu of historical financial statements.

  • Si necesita un préstamo para pequeñas empresas y necesita ayuda en español, comuníquese con Karina Lopez al (833) 549-2890 o karina@altcap.org.

  • If you have an existing AltCap loan and have questions about your loan terms or if you need to update your information, please contact Viva Young at 816-269-7809 or viva@altcap.org.

    If you need to make a payment on your existing AltCap loan, please contact Viva Young at 816-269-7809 or viva@altcap.org.

Apply for a RISE Microloan

About RISE Microloans

RISE Microlending is a program of the Kansas City Plaza Rotary Club in partnership with AltCap. We work together to bring equitable economic opportunity to our Kansas City Community.

This program is designed to assist entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs in Kansas City who have faced racial, social, or economic disparities. This program will support individuals in building the skills, products, services, and resources needed to establish a sustainable business.

This program is backed by a coalition of partners, including the Plaza Rotary Club, Pawsperity, Urban Ranger Corps, The Sewing Labs, KC Gift, CHES, Inc., and Determination Inc.

THE RISE FUND PARTNERS

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