Eligibility

We are a mission-driven lending network that supports enterprises working to increase access to healthy food in California’s low-income communities.

Is your enterprise a good fit for FreshWorks?

California FreshWorks lenders consider food enterprises that meet the following criteria:

• Increasing access to affordable, healthy food in low-income and underserved communities in California. Additional tools such as TA grants and credit enhancement support are available in our target geographies. Preference given to enterprises which build racial and economic equity, create quality jobs, or incorporate local sourcing and environmental stewardship
• Incorporated in the U.S
• Financing need from $50,000 to $3 Million. Enterprises that need financing in amounts less than $50,000 should visit our micro-lending page.
• Have available collateral, which may include business and/or personal assets, corporate and/or personal guarantees
• Two years of operating history. We may consider start-up financing when the owner or management team has industry experience
• Profitable or can demonstrate a path to profitability within 12 months
• Strong, experienced management team
• Able to provide financial projections for at least two years including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements

Our lenders assess applicants based on mission alignment, management strength, business model, collateral and ability to repay the requested loan.

Projects eligible for FreshWorks must primarily serve low-income communities, defined as communities at or below 80% of area median income. In addition, projects must serve communities with limited access to healthy foods. This includes communities designed Food Deserts by the USDA, Low Access Areas by The Reinvestment Fund, or which can otherwise document barriers to healthy food access.