A new partnership seeks to connect entrepreneurs with capital and coaching to develop their businesses in LaPorte County.

The Economic Development Corporation Michigan City is working with Allies for Community Business to identify business owners who would benefit from loans and grants as well as business coaching.

“We provide the capital, coaching and connections that entrepreneurs need to grow great businesses that create jobs and wealth in their communities,” said Mary Fran Riley, Director of Community Relations, Allies for Community Business. “We offer loans between $500 and $100,000 to early, emerging and established businesses at fair prices.

“In addition, we provide free coaching to anyone who wants to start or grow a business, and we connect entrepreneurs to trusted partners that can help further.”

Interested entrepreneurs can schedule a free meeting with an A4CB Business Coach or Community Lender online at www.a4cb.org .

“Entrepreneurs will be evaluated in a non-traditional way. Instead of being assessed by credit scores and the value of personal assets, they will be evaluated by their debt management and access to funds for their monthly loan payments,” said Clarence Hulse, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation. “This will provide a greater opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish themselves in our community and provide positive economic impact both for themselves and for Michigan City.”