Making economic
dreams a reality
Valley Economic Development Center, Inc. is a nonprofit small business lender serving metro Los Angeles — providing micro and small business loans, SBA lending, business assistance, and entrepreneurial training to the communities that need them most.
Who we are
Enriching communities
through economic access
Valley Economic Development Center, Inc. (VEDC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and sustaining jobs and businesses in our communities by providing high-quality economic development services.
As the largest nonprofit small business lender in metro Los Angeles, we offer direct micro and small business loans, as well as SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loans. But lending is only part of what we do — we pair capital with affordable business assistance services and entrepreneurial training, giving business owners the tools to succeed, not just the funds.
We focus on the entrepreneurs who are too often overlooked by traditional finance: women, minorities, and low- and moderate-income business owners across Los Angeles County and statewide.
Our mission: to create and sustain jobs and businesses in our communities by providing high-quality economic development services.
What we offer
Programs built for
real businesses
From your first microloan to a full SBA package, our programs meet businesses where they are — with capital, guidance, and training at every stage of growth.
Micro Loans
Small-dollar loans for startups and micro-enterprises that need accessible capital to launch, stabilise, or take the first step toward growth.
Small Business Loans
Direct lending for established small businesses seeking working capital, equipment, inventory, or expansion financing on fair, transparent terms.
SBA 7(a) Loans
Government-guaranteed loans through the SBA 7(a) program — flexible financing for working capital, acquisitions, refinancing, and more.
SBA 504 Loans
Long-term, fixed-rate financing for major assets — commercial real estate and large equipment purchases that anchor business growth.
Business Assistance
Affordable consulting and assistance services — business planning, financial management, marketing guidance, and hands-on operational support.
Entrepreneurial Training
Workshops, courses, and one-on-one coaching that build the skills entrepreneurs need — from first business plan to scaling an established company.
Los Angeles Women's Business Center
Dedicated support for women entrepreneurs
Through the Los Angeles Women's Business Center, we deliver an array of critical small business development services geared to the needs of women, minority, and low- and moderate-income aspiring and current entrepreneurs.
-
Free workshops covering business fundamentals, finance, marketing, and growth strategy
-
One-on-one consultations with experienced business advisors at no cost
-
Networking events, expos, and community connections that open doors
-
Quality business education for those who would otherwise lack access to these services
Success stories
Businesses we've
helped grow
Every bank turned me down because my restaurant was "too new." VEDC looked at my plan, my work ethic, and my community — not just my credit score. The microloan they provided got my doors open, and their training program taught me how to keep them open.
The Women's Business Center changed everything for me. The free consultations helped me restructure my pricing, and the workshops connected me with other women building businesses. Two years later, I've doubled my revenue and hired three employees.
We used VEDC's SBA 504 program to purchase our own building after fifteen years of renting. Their team walked us through every step of a complex process and made it manageable. Owning our space has transformed the economics of our business.
FAQ
Common questions
- Our lending programs serve small business owners and entrepreneurs in Los Angeles County and across California. We especially focus on borrowers who face barriers with traditional banks — including startups, women- and minority-owned businesses, and low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs. Contact us to discuss your eligibility.
- Our programs span from small microloans for startups and micro-enterprises up to substantial SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loans for established businesses financing major purchases like commercial real estate. The right amount and program depend on your business's needs and financial situation — we'll help you find the best fit.
- No. As a nonprofit mission-driven lender, we look at the whole picture — your business plan, character, community impact, and capacity to repay — not just a credit score. Many of our most successful borrowers were previously declined by traditional banks.
- Yes. The Los Angeles Women's Business Center provides free workshops, one-on-one consultations, and networking opportunities. These services deliver quality small business education and development for entrepreneurs who would otherwise lack access — that's central to our nonprofit mission.
- SBA 7(a) loans are flexible, general-purpose loans for working capital, equipment, refinancing, or acquisitions. SBA 504 loans are designed specifically for major fixed assets — commercial real estate and large equipment — with long-term, fixed-rate structures. Our team will help you determine which program suits your goals.
- Simply reach out by phone or email. Tell us about your business and what you're trying to achieve — whether that's a loan, business assistance, or training. Our team will explain the options available and guide you through the next steps. There is no cost or obligation to start the conversation.
Get in touch
Let's build your business together
Whether you're starting out, growing, or facing a challenge, our team is here to help. Reach out and we'll respond promptly.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403-1498
