Client Newsletter | Volume 6 | September 2025
 

Ignite by CSBDF

At Carolina Small Business Development Fund, we know that access to capital can fuel your business growth. That’s why we created Ignite —a flexible loan program offering up to $75,000 to help small businesses thrive. 



Click here or on the logo to the left to learn more about Ignite and see if it makes sense for you!
 

Staff Member Spotlight

Meet Bilal Johnson, our Business Solutions Officer serving the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Metro area!


With over a decade of experience driving growth, leading high-performing teams, and executing operational strategies, Bilal combines a competitive spirit with a hands-on, grassroots approach. His expertise spans business development, marketing, and small business technical assistance.


If you are a Charlotte-area small business owner looking to take your business to the next level, reach out to Bilal at bjohnson@carolinasmallbusiness.org!
 
 

'How to Access Capital for Your Small Business' with CSBDF and the Town of Henderson
 
 



Join Carolina Small Business Development Fund Business Solutions Officer Jonathan Collins and the Town of Henderson on Wednesday, Sept. 24 for an informative event on how to access capital for your small business!


During this session, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) as well as practical guidance on what it takes to secure funding for your small business.


Topics will include personal financial readiness, sources of capital, understanding the loan application process, and more!
 

'Powering Prosperity: A Small Business Resource Event for Empowerment and Growth'


Join CSBDF Business Solutions Officer Magaly Rivera in Fayetteville on Wednesday, Oct. 22 for a small business resource event designed to foster empowerment and growth!


This event is about creating real opportunities for small businesses to connect with resources, build relationships, and take actionable steps toward growth. Local entrepreneurs, community leaders, and business advocates are encouraged to attend and learn how these programs can support their journey.


Admission is free, but space is limited. To RSVP for the event register here!
 

Small Business Development Workshop with Rep. Garland Pierce




Join Carolina Small Business Development Fund, EDPNC, and Representative Garland Pierce for a Small Business Development Workshop in Raeford, North Carolina on Monday, Sept. 22!


Hear from CSBDF and EDPNC representatives and get your questions answered about financial and other resources available for all small business owners in NC!


To learn more and register, click here or on the graphic to the left.

 

Millie CEO Summit



For the second year in a row, CSBDF Board Vice-Chair Bobby Robinson will be hosting the Millie CEO Summit in Charlotte.


Join a room full of like-minded, audacious entrepreneurs to network, grow and build together with real vibes, authentic conversations, and a community that will support you on this journey!


Click here or on the graphic to the right to learn more and register.

 

'Building Your Business Projections for Lender Readiness' with Johnston Community College

Join CSBDF Business Solutions Officer Magaly Rivera at Johnston Community College on Monday, Oct. 6 for an information session about building your business projections for lender readiness!


Click here or on the logo to the left to learn more and register!
 

Vivid Digital Classroom

Have you checked out CSBDF's Vivid Digital Classroom yet?


Vivid Digital Classroom lights the way for entrepreneurs by providing technical assistance through free online courses designed to help small business owners start, support, and grow their businesses. Vivid offers digital classes on a variety of small business topics in both English and Spanish, delivered by industry experts to help entrepreneurs achieve small business success.


Click here or on the logo to the right to get started today!
 
 
 

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES

As part of our commitment to helping small business owners grow and thrive throughout the life of their business, CSBDF is happy to offer a free online Small Business Development Resources page on our website.


This page is full of useful resources for both current and prospective small business owners. From perfecting your business plan to tax resources to cohort trainings and more, check out or Small Business Development Resources page to help you take your business to the next level.
SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES
 

Client Spotlight

Meet Alexis and Leu Freycinet, the owners of Steelo Salon in Durham. At Steelo, Alexis and Leu are bringing decades of experience to provide their clients with comfortable, confident, and luxurious salon services!


Alexis and Leu were connected to CSBDF, where they secured a loan to help with startup costs. "The team at CSBDF held our hand the entire way. It was a great experience,” said Alexis. "We felt confident we knew our stuff thanks to CSBDF.”


Read the full story here!
 
 
 
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Carolina Small Business Development Fund | 3128 Highwoods Blvd Ste 170 | Raleigh, NC 27604 US

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