CAN DO, Inc., Greater Hazleton’s economic development agency, has been approved as an area loan organization for Luzerne County by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

The designation means that CAN DO is able to secure financing for many different types of small businesses throughout Luzerne County. The funding can be used for a variety of business needs, including start-up, expansion and working capital.

“Since our founding in 1956, CAN DO has worked hard to assist businesses in Greater Hazleton and Luzerne County. We are pleased to partner with DCED to offer loans to companies as part of our commitment to help businesses succeed,” said CAN DO Director of Economic Development Bernadette DeBias.

“CAN DO is one of 28 area loan organizations that assist small businesses statewide,” said Jared Lucas, Small Business First division director. “The ALO certification authorizes CAN DO to market the Small Business First and First Industries SBF programs in Luzerne County, underwrite and package the loans for review and approval by DCED, and service the loans after approval.”

As an area loan organization, CAN DO administers four small-business loan programs: Small Business First, First Industries Fund, Community Economic Development Program and Pollution Prevention Assistance Account.

Through CAN DO Business Financing, small businesses can obtain low-interest loans for expenses such as land and building acquisition, construction, equipment, working capital, installation of pollution control equipment and energy efficiency upgrades.

“Small companies will find that the Commonwealth and CAN DO are committed to helping them grow their business. Whether a business is just getting off the ground, needs help with operating capital, or anything in between, CAN DO Business Financing may be able to help secure the financing to make it work,” DeBias said.

Some of the types of companies that can benefit from CAN DO’s small-business financing include: manufacturers, construction companies, technological/computer-related services, hotels, established restaurants, day-care centers, agricultural businesses and tourism-related businesses.

Current loan rates being offered range from 2 to 5 percent. Available loan amounts range up to $200,000 with various repayment terms.

To learn more about small-business financing, call CAN DO Business Financing at (570) 455-1508. CAN DO’s business financing specialists will discuss with you the types of businesses that are eligible and what projects are covered under the loan programs. They can also provide information on small-business financing to those who represent small businesses, such as attorneys, bankers and accountants.