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Funding Pathways - Understanding Loans, Lenders, and Applications

  • The American Small Business Chamber of Commerce 700 12th Street NW #700 Washington, DC 20005 U.S.A. (map)

Are you a new or growing small business looking to enter the federal marketplace? Winning contracts is only half the battle—having the right funding in place is what allows you to perform and grow.

Join us for this web meeting designed specifically for small businesses and new federal suppliers who want to understand the full range of funding options available. We’ll walk you through the key lending programs, explain basic qualifications, and show you how to prepare the financial documents lenders require—without the jargon.

What You’ll Learn:

  • The lending landscape for small businesses: government-backed, community-based, and private lenders

  • Step-by-step breakdowns of the major programs: SBA 7(a), SBA 504, SBA Microloans, Disaster Loans, USDA Business Loans

  • Alternative funding sources: CDFIs, State/Local initiatives, banks, credit unions, and fintech lenders

  • The basic qualifications lenders look for—credit, collateral, guarantees, and more

  • A practical loan application checklist you can use immediately

  • Plain-language explanations of financial documents (tax returns, P&L, balance sheets)

  • Tips for aligning funding with federal contract performance


Who Should Attend:

  • Small businesses entering the federal contracting space

  • Firms seeking SBA or USDA loan programs

  • New federal suppliers unfamiliar with financial terms and documents

Takeaways:

  • A Loan Comparison Matrix to help you choose the right program

  • A step-by-step application checklist

  • A glossary of key financial terms written in plain English

  • Confidence in knowing where to go, who to talk to, and how to prepare for funding success

    Date & Time

    Web Conference Meeting: Thursday, October 2, 2025| 11:00 AM- 12:00 PM EST

    Registration

     Click here to register now.

    Fees

    Registration fees are based on membership level. Members and non-members are welcome.

    Fees for this meeting are as follows:

    • Complimentary: Supplier Members

    • $15:  Business Members 

    • $35:Advocate Members, Individual, and Non-Members

    • Complimentary:  Government Agency and Large Prime Contractor Representatives (as approved by USWCC)

    If you are not currently a Supplier or Business Member, consider joining here and then returning to this page to purchase your discounted registration.

Presenter

Charmagne Manning
President
The American Small Business Chamber of Commerce


Charmagne Manning is a nationally recognized advocate for small business with over two decades of experience in entrepreneurship, public service, and nonprofit leadership. As President of The American Small Business Chamber of Commerce, she leads efforts to strengthen federal contracting access and economic opportunities for small firms. Her background spans multiple sectors including construction, hospitality, government, and municipal services.
 Previously serving as President & COO of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Manning has championed policy reform, professional development, and certification access for women-owned businesses nationwide. She is known for her strategic leadership, operational expertise, and commitment to inclusive growth.
 Based in Alachua, Florida, Ms. Manning continues to serve as a trusted voice in the national small business community, working to expand access, equity, and economic empowerment for diverse entrepreneurs.


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September 3

Government Essentials: Effective Capability Statements

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October 15

National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit | Fall 2025 (DC Area)