Request for Proposal (RFP) for Small Business Capital Consultant

Overview:

The Northwest Native Chamber invites proposals from qualified Small Business Capital Consultants to assist in facilitating funding access for up to seven small businesses through diverse channels, including traditional bank loans, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), State Small Business Credit Initiative funds, and other lending institutions. Consultants will engage with each business for 10-30 hours, tailoring services to individual needs. This opportunity is funded through the Economic Equity Investment Program where the Northwest Native Chamber (NWNC) received $450,000 from Business Oregon to launch the Capital and Asset Acquisition Assistance pilot program. This innovative program will collaborate with 6 Native American entrepreneurs and small business owners over 12 months, aiming to identify and facilitate strategic high-value capital purchases, fostering business expansion and intergenerational wealth. Cohort members may receive up to $100k in capital support, primarily as down payment assistance, alongside one-on-one technical assistance in areas like business plan development, marketing, and financial practices. The combined impact of capital investments and comprehensive support aims to drive significant growth, wealth-building, and industry influence, and contribute to economic reparations for Native Americans historically excluded from wealth-building opportunities.

For inquiries and submission of proposals, please contact:

Alyssa Camp

Acamp@nwnc.org

Project Requirements

The ideal Small Business Capital Consultant should possess the following qualifications: Proven experience in business planning, financial projections, and financing. Demonstrated success in navigating diverse funding sources for small businesses. Extensive experience working with underserved communities. Familiarity with the State Small Business Credit Initiative and other relevant funding programs. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work with very small businesses and understand their specific challenges related to accessing capital and understanding capital opportunities.

Bidder Instructions

Bid Documents

Scope

The selected consultant will be responsible for: Financial Assessment: Conduct a thorough financial assessment of the client’s business, identifying funding needs, cash flow analysis, and financial strengths and weaknesses. Funding Strategy: Develop a tailored funding strategy based on the client’s unique situation, considering various options such as traditional bank loans, alternative lenders, grants, CDFIs, government programs, and other financing sources. Access to Capital: Guide clients through the process of accessing capital, helping them understand eligibility criteria, preparing necessary documentation, and facilitating connections with potential lenders or investors. Financial Projections: Create realistic and data-driven financial projections that demonstrate the business’s potential for growth and profitability, increasing the likelihood of securing funding. Risk Mitigation: Identify potential risks associated with the funding process and provide strategies to mitigate those risks. Customized Solutions: Recognize the unique needs of each client and tailor services accordingly.

Additional Information

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria: Demonstrated experience and success in small business financing. Expertise in navigating various funding sources. Experience in working with underserved communities. Proposed approach and methodology for individual businesses. Cost competitiveness for each business.

Important Info

Project Contacts

Primary: ACamp@NWNC.org

Secondary: Support@NWNC.org

Architect

N/A

Bid Deadline

February 23rd by 5 PM

Request Deadline

February 22nd by 5 PM

Expected Start Date

March 12, 2024

Expected Finish Date

December 31, 2024

Project Description