About this programme
The Community-Based Economic Development (CBED) loan program funds small businesses that support economic development in their own communities. The Business Development and Support Division (BDSD), part of Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT), runs it.
The program looks for viable, sustainable businesses whose activities fit local community values, and it directs its money toward agricultural production, food production, manufacturing, and wholesaling in particular.
CBED is broader than the loan fund alone. The same office also makes limited grants to nonprofit organizations running community-driven economic development projects, and it offers training and capacity-building support to small businesses. The loan is the piece of CBED aimed directly at for-profit businesses.
How it works
Loans usually run from $50,000 to $125,000, at an interest rate of 4% to 8%, with a term of up to 10 years.
Money can go toward working capital, construction or facility improvements, equipment purchases, or the materials, labor, and services needed for production and marketing.
Who can apply
The business must be registered in Hawaii and have been operating for at least two years.
The applicant must show a demonstrated financial ability to repay the loan.
Applicants must show a turn-down from at least one financial institution before applying.
The business must be in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, or wholesaling, and the loan proceeds must generate economic development outcomes for the community.
How to apply
- Submit a Loan Interest Form to start the process.
Frequently asked
How much can a business borrow through the CBED loan program?
Loans usually range from $50,000 to $125,000.
What interest rate and term apply?
Rates run from 4% to 8%, with terms of up to 10 years.
Do I need to have been turned down by a bank first?
Yes. Applicants must show a turn-down from at least one financial institution.
What industries does the program fund?
It focuses on businesses in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, and wholesaling that serve local community needs.
Does CBED do anything besides loans?
Yes. The same BDSD office also makes limited grants to nonprofits running community-driven economic development projects and offers training and capacity-building support, but those are separate from the business loan.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.