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By Ana Martinez Ortiz, Greater Milwaukee Foundation
Our community thrives when 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
How to apply
Visit greatermilwaukeefoundation.org/ThriveOnLoans to download the application.
To submit your application and supporting materials, please email ThriveOnLoans@greatermilwaukeefoundation.org
Program questions
For inquiries about the program, please contact Kermiath McClendon at 414-336-7049.
- Application questions
For inquiries about your application, please contact Terese Caro at 414-343-3091. - Application opens
July 6, 2026 - Application closes
July 20, 2026
We are greater together when we support our small businesses
This round of loan funding is part of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s commitment to infuse $30.5 million in capital into disadvantaged small neighborhood businesses by the Impact Investing Program.
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