social goals. Browsing their 'Business Projects' page will give you a good idea of the sorts of businesses they're looking for. Business Investment Loan Fund (Northwest Manitoba) - provides small business loans of up to $75,000 for businesses located in or intending to locate in the Northwest region of Manitoba. The fund is "intended as a lender of last resort". Applicants need to be able to provide a minimum 10 percent equity. Lloydminster Region Community Futures (Alberta) - provides small business loans of up to $150,000 for starting or growing a business. Applicants have to show proof that they've been turned down for a loan by at least one financial institution. There is a loan application fee. Community Futures British Columbia - provides small business loans of up to $150,000 for new business start-ups, business expansion, or to stabilize an existing business. A "reasonable personal financial investment" is required. Circle of Habondia Lending Society (B.C.) - provides loans of up to $1000 to women "for whatever they need it for" in the Slocan Valley/Nelson/Castlegar area of B.C. Help with business ideas is one example of the kinds of expenses the Society will help out with. Before You Apply Every one of these Community Loan Funds wants to see a solid business plan as part of your application. If you don't have one, my Writing a Business Plan series that starts with the Business Plan Outline will guide you through the process of writing one.