Find quick answers about eligibility, loan terms, required documents, timelines, and next steps—so you can apply with confidence and know exactly what to expect, from start to finish.
Let us help you start or expand your business! With competitive interest rates, our alternative lending options support local businesses to grow and thrive. Send a message to our lending specialist toget started.
Meet real local businesses supported through our Small Business Lending solutions—made possible with financing, guidance, and strong partnerships across our region.
For over 40 years, Cascades West Business Lending (CWBL) offers small business in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties loans to those who may not want or qualify for traditional types of financing.
We provide access to capital with low interest rates to help local businesses grow, succeed, and thrive.
Learn more about how CWBL works below and send us message to get started today!
We use our funds to stimulate private lending by partnering with traditional lenders, coming in with a second smaller loan behind theirs. Essentially having two loans to finance a project. We allow the “lead” bank to be in first position on all collateral. By lowering their risk, we incent them to participate in a project they might not consider otherwise. Partnering with traditional lenders also allows us to stretch our dollars, allowing our funds to reach more people.
The loan funds go out to assist small businesses and as the loans are repaid, we have the ability to assist others in the same position. CWBL has a new collaborative partnership with Mid-Willamette Valley COG, Lane COG, and CCD Business Development Corporation to show benefits of the SBA504 Loan Program called Unity Lending.
Get answers to the questions we hear most—how the process works, what you may need to qualify, and what the opportunities are—so you can take your next step with confidence.
Businesses need to be located in Benton, Lincoln, or Linn Counties. We can refer you to similar programs for most Counties in the Willamette Valley. SBA 504 loans can be used anywhere in the State of Oregon. See our Unity Lending SBA 504 page.
For profit or not for profit businesses structured as sole proprietors, Limited Liability Companies, Corporations, and Partnerships. We support businesses from most sectors.
Funds can be used for small business purchases, renovation, or construction of commercial property, purchase of machinery or equipment, furniture and fixtures, and working capital.
Loan programs have a minimum of $25,000 and a maximum of $250,000 and may be used to cover up to 75% of the total project costs. When we partner with private lenders the typical scenario is private lender 50% of the project, CWBL 35-40% of the project, and the borrower coming in with 10-15%.
One Full Time Equivalent (FTE) per every $30,000 - $50,000 borrowed depending on the loan fund.
Rates are tied to the prime rate and can be anywhere from 0.25%-2.00% above prime depending on loan risk. The rate will be fixed for the term of the loan.
The term of a fixed asset loan will not be greater than the average useful life of the assets being purchased. Terms typically will not exceed 15 years. The term of a working capital loan will not exceed 5 years.
Yes, all projects will be collateralized to the greatest extent possible. Personal guaranties are also required of all 20% or more owners of the business. In most cases assignment of a life insurance policy is required on sole proprietorships and single member LLC’s.
An application fee of $300 - $500 (depending on program) collected at time of application. A loan fee of 1.50% on the amount borrowed. The borrower pays all third-party processing and closing costs. Loan payments are collected via ACH and there is a $12.00 monthly fee.
No. We encourage borrowers to pay off or refinance with a traditional lender as soon as they are able. This replenishes the program funds so we can help others like yourself.A loan fee of 1.50% on the amount borrowed. The borrower pays all third-party processing and closing costs. Loan payments are collected via ACH and there is a $12.00 monthly fee.
Crabtree Automotive has been serving the Albany community for over 40 years, owing their continued success to hard work and unwavering commitment to integrity in all they do.
The Beachcrest Brewing taproom offers a variety of unique brews that include creative modern American styles along with classic European ones, creating a tap list that rotates regularly.
Visit Calapooia’s cozy taproom in Albany to enjoy their selection of amazing craft microbrews, hand-crafted cocktails featuring Vivacity Spirits, delicious pub food, live music, events & more!
Every pastry from Taylor Made Cafe & Bakery is a celebration of freshness and flavor. With a menu that evolves with the seasons, there’s always something tasty at Taylor Made in Sweet Home.
Nye Beach Cafe is a must-visit next time you visit the Historic Nye Beach area of Newport. The menu is as varied as the cafe, inviting, colorful, eclectic and covered with artwork by local artists.
Skōsh in Waldport offers fast casual, dine in, pick-up, grab & go and delivery. Specializing in steak burgers and cheesesteaks, as well as everyday fare with a little fun and a lot of flavor.
Into the Brew is a local family business, Veteran-owned, woman-owned, and loaded with locally sourced products right in Sweet Home. Their locally roasted espresso is a must-try.
4 Spirits Distillery tasting room in south town Corvallis offers a full food and drink menu for in-house dining and takeout. Play yard games and enjoy the weather in their expansive outdoor seating area with friends and family.
Since 2017, Out West Farm & Ranch has been providing tools and supplies to help local farms and ranches thrive in Philomath and Benton County.
The Pines Dine is a vibrant food truck village in Lincoln City, offering a diverse culinary experience with many unique food trucks and a main beverage bar, Vin & Brau. Perfect for gatherings of all kinds.
Smoked Out Sandwiches features mouth watering, hand-crafted sandwiches. Whether you’re feeling a pulled pork with BBQ sauce, a classic Italian, or a delicious Banh Mi, Smoked Out Sandwiches has you covered.
The Galley Kitchen Shop is located on the Historic Newport Bayfront. Specializing in kitchen gadgets, cookware, bakeware, barware, coffee and tea, local Oregon made jams and sauces, nautical gifts and much more!
When you need professional junk hauling and junk removal services in Jefferson, Albany, Corvallis, Lebanon, or Salem, there’s no better choice than Hub City Junk Removal Services.
Albany Lock and Key provides reliable and efficient locksmith services to help you safeguard your property. Their team of skilled professionals is dedicated to ensuring your safety and security.
Find the perfect suit and other menswear for any event at The Natty Dresser in downtown Albany. Take advantage of comprehensive services designed to enhance your wardrobe experience and confidence.
Central Coast Physical Therapy is committed to providing individualized care that champions clients in their process toward greater independence and quality of life.
Eats & Treats in Philomath offers more than just an unforgettable dining experience, take their delicious menu to go, OR try baking at home with one of their many custom baking mixes!
8 Second Strong is a rodeo fashion brand rooted in small-town values, hard work, and dedication. No matter what is trying to buck you off in life, ‘hold fast’ for just 8 more seconds.
All Star Auto offers quality used car sales and experienced vehicle repair services. Take advantage of in-house financing for used vehicles with zero percent interest rate to qualified buyers.
Hopscotch Toys & Games is a favorite destination for kids and adults of all ages who are looking to play, discover, or for a sweet treat. Find childhood magic at Hopscotch.
Riverside Windows & Doors offers the highest quality products in all categories of windows and doors and the service to back them up. Serving the greater Corvallis area.
With a professional and passionate team, West Hills Animal Hospital in Corvallis serves pet families with care centered in transparency, comfort, and convenience.
Stakeholders and members of the public are welcome to attend any Loan Program Advisory Committee (LPAC) meeting and provide public comments.
For meeting related grievances, please contact our People & Culture Director, Ryan Shulze at rschulze@ocwcog.org.
OCWCOG LPAC Hybrid Meeting
This meeting will be Hybrid with an in-person option at Oregon Cascades West – Albany or a virtual option via the Microsoft Teams meeting link provided in your outlook calendar invite and below.
LOAN PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
Thursday, June 25, 2026
9:00 – 9:30 am
In Person at OCWCOG Albany Office:
1400 Queen Ave SE,
Albany, Oregon 97322
or via Teams by clicking HERE
Meeting ID: 225 714 550 074 63
Passcode: si9uD2CV
Mobile Call-in Number:
1-872-242-8088
Phone Conference ID: 986 029 248#
If you wish to attend as a member of the public, you can call or video in. If you require additional accommodations, or need assistance with Teams, please reach out to Travis at Tovervig@ocwcog.org.
Stakeholders and members of the public are welcome to attend any Loan Program Advisory Committee (LPAC) meeting and provide public comments.
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About Loan Program Advisory Committee
The Loan Program Advisory Committee (LPAC) is responsible for advising the Cascades West Business Lending (CWBL) staff and the OCWCOG Board of Directors on matters relating to the development and operation of the CWBL program. The LPAC membership consists of the Board of Directors’ Executive Committee and a commercial banking lending professional, or an individual involved in economic development within the OCWCOG Region. To learn more about LPAC please visit our website: https://orcw.gov/cascades-west-business-lending/.
About Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments
Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG), on behalf of the member governments, carries out a variety of local, State, and Federal programs. The majority of funding is provided by way of contracts to administer specific services. As an Oregon intergovernmental entity, OCWCOG can provide for, or on behalf of, its member governments any service that they are authorized to provide. Whether it is helping a business find appropriate capital, helping seniors and persons with disabilities plan for independent living, or coordinating local roads improvement priorities, OCWCOG offers these and many other innovative services to the local governments and residents of Benton, Lincoln, and Linn Counties. For more information, visit Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments | Serving Benton, Linn & Lincoln Counties
The Loan Program Advisory Committee (LPAC) is responsible for advising the Cascades West Business Lending (CWBL) staff and the Cascades West Board of Directors on matters relating to the development and operation of the CWBL program.
The LPAC membership consists of the Board of Directors’ Executive Committee and a commercial banking lending professional, or an individual involved in economic development within the Cascades West Region. Non-Cascades West Executive Committee members serve a two (2)- to six (6)-year term. Former Committee members are eligible for reappointment when at least one (1)-year has lapsed after completion of the maximum six (6)-year term. The Committee may nominate to the Cascades West Board of Directors persons to fill vacant positions for partially completed terms, when necessary.
Commissioner, Benton County
Mayor, City of Newport
Commissioner, Linn County
Mayor, City of Albany
City Councilor, City of Waldport
Pending Board Meeting on 12/04
Mayor, City of Philomath
Reach out to Cascades West Small Business Lending to connect with our lending specialist. The next chapter of your business could start now!
