The Arlington Economic Development Corporation (EDC), in partnership with LiftFund, Texas’ leading nonprofit small business microlender, proudly announces the launch of its new Interest Buydown Program, offering zero-percent interest loans to local small businesses.

The first LiftFund partnership with a municipality in north Texas, the program aims to support the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing up to $100,000 in interest-free loans to help foster growth, innovation, and job creation.

"Arlington, Texas, has long been dedicated to helping start and nurture small businesses," said Marty Wieder, executive director of the Arlington EDC.  "Small business is the foundation of our local economy.  This partnership with LiftFund is one more way in which the City of Arlington and the Arlington EDC can directly benefit small business owner/operators, helping them purchase equipment, create jobs and further strengthen the American Dream City's economic ecosystem."

The $300,000 investment – funded by the Arlington EDC – is designed to offer flexible funding to cover startup costs, business expansion, staffing, inventory, and day-to-day operations. The program is open to Arlington-based businesses that have limited access to conventional funding.

"This initiative underscores LiftFund’s mission to provide equitable access to capital for small business owners with limited access to funding,” said Amy Hereford, president and CEO of LiftFund. “We're thrilled to partner with the Arlington EDC to provide local small businesses with interest-free financing, giving them the opportunity to achieve real growth."

Since 2016, LiftFund and its partners have helped small business owners secure over $7 million in interest-free loans through similar programs across Texas. In Arlington, this new program continues to alleviate financial constraints while driving sustainable growth for small businesses.

“We’re committed to ensuring that Arlington remains a place where small businesses can thrive,” Hereford added. “The Interest Buydown Program is an investment in the future of our local entrepreneurs that will help drive economic growth and create lasting community impact.”

Prospective applicants can learn more about eligibility requirements and the application process by visiting this link.