About this programme
Justine PETERSEN is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) based in St. Louis. Its CDFI micro-loan is built for small business owners and entrepreneurs, including those with limited credit history, who might not qualify for a conventional bank loan.
It is one of several small-business loan products JP runs side by side, alongside an SBA Micro-Enterprise Loan, a USDA Micro-Enterprise Loan for rural Missouri businesses, a Community Advantage Loan, an Able Biz loan for people with disabilities, short-term Contractor Loans, and the state-backed IgniteMO Loan Participation Program. The CDFI Micro-Loan carries the highest rate and fee of JP's standard micro-loan products, reflecting that it serves borrowers other lenders, including JP's own SBA-backed product, are less likely to approve.
How it works
Loans go up to $50,000, and are typically over $10,000.
The interest rate runs 12% to 20%, plus a 6% closing fee.
Terms run up to a 72-month (6-year) term.
The loan carries a 100% collateral requirement.
Who can apply
The program primarily serves St. Louis, Missouri small businesses and entrepreneurs.
It is built to serve those with limited credit history who may not qualify for conventional bank financing.
How to apply
- Submit Justine PETERSEN's online Loan Service Request form to start the process.
- Alternatively, contact Justine PETERSEN directly at 314.533.2411 (1023 N. Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63106).
Frequently asked
How much can I borrow?
Up to $50,000, though loans are typically over $10,000.
What does the loan cost?
An interest rate of 12% to 20%, plus a 6% closing fee.
Do I need collateral?
Yes. The loan carries a 100% collateral requirement.
Can I still get a loan if my credit history is limited?
This program is built to serve small businesses and entrepreneurs with limited credit history, including those who might not qualify for conventional bank financing.
How long do I have to repay?
Up to a 72-month term.
Is this JP's only small-business loan?
No. JP also runs an SBA Micro-Enterprise Loan, a USDA Micro-Enterprise Loan for rural Missouri businesses, a Community Advantage Loan, an Able Biz loan for people with disabilities, short-term Contractor Loans, and the state-backed IgniteMO Loan Participation Program, each with its own rates and terms.
More funding in Missouri
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IgniteMO Small Business Loan Participation Program
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LaunchKC Grants Competition
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Arch Grants Startup Competition
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Idea-stage to pre-Series A startups get a $75,000 equity-free grant for relocating to and operating in St. Louis for a year.
All 8 programmes in Missouri →
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.