State’s Economic Gardening loans offer small-business financing for capital purchases, employee training, payroll for new jobs
Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County encourages local businesses to apply

SARASOTA, FLA (October 5, 2009) – The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County (EDC) is encouraging local businesses to investigate state-sponsored Economic Gardening loans that offer financing for capital purchases, employee training and salaries for new jobs. Details are available online at www.bbif.com/egp/home.html.

The Economic Gardening Program offers loans ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 to qualified companies. Eligible businesses will have 10-50 employees and $1 million to $25 million in annual revenues. Additional qualifications apply.

“We encourage small businesses in Sarasota County to investigate this financing option as we develop local approaches to fostering next-stage growth of companies through our Economic Gardening initiative,” said Kathleen Baylis, president and CEO of the EDC. “The state-sponsored loan program is another tool to help local businesses expand and create jobs.”

Sarasota County businesses that need assistance applying for Economic Gardening loans may contact Joan McGill at (941) 309-1200 ext. 110.

About the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County
The EDC of Sarasota County is the private, not-for-profit corporation leading the community’s economic development strategy to add high-wage jobs and diversify the local economy. The EDC provides business assistance to companies in Sarasota County and helps forge solutions to community challenges that affect quality of life. The EDC works in partnership with chambers of commerce, local governments and other organizations throughout the county and the region. For more information, visit  www.edcsarasotacounty.com.