Calling Maryland lenders! Partner with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through loans-to-lenders, participation loans, and companion loans to small businesses operating in Maryland (500 or fewer employees).
These programs are designed to support lending and financing through traditional lenders, and can make the difference between a project launching or not.
If you are a lender interested in a relationship with DHCD, please reach out to the DHCD business development team: [email protected]
Available Partnerships
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Lender Referrals: DHCD partners with lending institutions for referrals and companion lending with a minimum 1:1 private capital match. Through referral relationships, DHCD helps match lenders and borrowers.
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Companion Loans: Pair DHCD Business Lending with Bank/CDFI financing for permanent take-outs, bridge loans, construction loans, etc. This is a great fit for gap financing to real estate development projects with demonstrable community value.
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Participation Loans: DHCD contribution of up to $5 million available for participation loans.
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Loan to lender: Designed for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) for relending to small businesses combined with the required private capital match.
Current Loan to Lender CDFIs
If you’re looking for a participating Community Development Financial Institution to apply for a loan, the Department has several participating CDFIs.
Lendistry specializes in small business lending for underserved entrepreneurs, offering a streamlined, fast-track application process for businesses seeking $150,000 or less on an accelerated timeline.
City First Enterprises is people-focused, financing projects that strengthen communities, including small businesses or nonprofits, and mixed-use developments.
FSC First provides access to working capital and flexible financing options for small businesses, with a strong emphasis on meeting borrowers where they are.
NCRC Community Development Fund supports small businesses, particularly minority- and women-owned enterprises, through mission-driven lending and technical assistance resources.
Baltimore Community Lending’s mission is to support the revitalization and strengthening of underserved communities throughout the Baltimore metro area through innovative and flexible financial assistance designed to promote community development.
Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund (NIIF) is dedicated to delivering capital and promoting inclusive growth in Baltimore’s historically disinvested neighborhoods. We seek to support communities through loans and investments that can accelerate community revitalization, catalyze business activity, and provide greater economic opportunity for residents.
For more information:
