Business & Nonprofit Loans
Self-Help makes loans to small businesses, nonprofits, commercial developments, and public charter schools.
Our vision is an America of thriving families, businesses, and communities, where everyone has economic opportunity. To date, we have loaned over $392 million to thousands of businesses and nonprofits, concentrating of those headed by or serving people of color, women, and rural residents.
We lend to businesses that make a difference.
- Small businesses such as stores, restaurants, service companies, auto repair shops, and any other businesses that create opportunities where they're most needed.
- Core community services like child care, public charter schools, health care and churches that stabilize neighborhoods.
- Commercial Real Estate Developments that revitalize low-wealth communities.
- Environmentally Sustainable Enterprises
- Nonprofits
- Manufacturers that provide quality jobs.
You can use a Self-Help loan for any business need: starting, buying, or expanding a business; purchasing real estate; acquiring equipment; buying inventory.
Where We Lend
North Carolina: We lend to small businesses and nonprofits throughout North Carolina. To find a small business lender in other states, please visit the Opportunity Finance Network or the National Federation of CDCUs.
Nationally: We make loans of $500,000 or more to charter schools and commercial developments in low-income communities across the country.
- Learn more about our loan products
- Apply for a loan
SELF-HELP DOES NOT OFFER SBA ARC LOANS

