Invest

At ECDI, we invest in people, connecting our resources with entrepreneurs who wish to start or expand their businesses. We fill a gap in the credit industry by offering small business loans ranging from $750 to $350,000 to entrepreneurs.

Loan Program  |  Investment Opportunities

Educate

Our training institute provides knowledge and guidance for successful development and management of small businesses. We offer a large variety of classes which are taught by professional trainers and small business experts.

Training Offered | Schedule of Classes

Innovate

ECDI operates a truly comprehensive suite of specialized programming for our entrepreneurs, including our Business Innovation Center, Food Fort, Women's Business Center, MBE Capital for Construction Series, and more!

Learn More About our Programs

Economic Community Development Institute: Investing in People, Businesses & Communities in Ohio

Our Mission

Since 2004, ECDI has assisted Ohio’s entrepreneurs through their one-stop-shop business services model, suited to meet the needs of all entrepreneurs, regardless of what business stage they’re in. From providing capital to entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses, to providing focused, business-specific educational opportunities to enhance entrepreneurial skill sets, ECDI works with their clients to meet their specific needs. Whether you merely have a business idea or are opening up your fifth location, ECDI’s “never say no” approach has allowed over 13,000 entrepreneurs to take advantage of the services they provide. 

Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.