First Light spotlights small-business loans

Small-business owners will have a chance to learn about the U.S. Small Business Administration and its loan programs at a free seminar next week.

First Light Federal Credit Union, which recently became an SBA lender, is teaming up with the SBA to put on the free seminar at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the credit union's administration building, 9983 Ken worthy in Northeast El Paso.

The seminar is part of First Light’s quarterly financial-literacy seminars for small-business owners, said Rosie Gonzalez, the credit union's vice president of business services. "What we found is the community is in need of and wants more information on small-business topics."

The workshop is designed to give participants an overview of the SBA's lending programs and its services, she said. Information will also be provided to help small-business owners begin the loan application process.

William Grady, owner of a new independent convenience store in Northeast El Paso called Store 54, plans to attend. "I'm hoping to learn what I need to do to grow my business and make it better."

Mia Loya, owner of Borderline Gourmet Barbecue & Spices, an online retailer of gourmet sauces, marinades and rubs, wants to learn about what financing options are available to expand her business.

"Right now, my business is mostly online," she said. "I want to expand and open my own shop here in El Paso that's unique and offers a high-quality product." Phillip Silva, the SBA's El Paso District director, said the event is a great opportunity for First Light customers and community members to learn about the SBA.

"We've gone through a training effort with First Light," Silva said, "and this is their first big effort to reach out to the community and their customers on their willingness to provide commercial lending."

Source:
http://www.elpasotimes.com/business/ci_9615840