What is the SEED Program?

The SEED Program is a character-based loan fund developed in a partnership between Broadview Federal Credit Union and the University at Albany's Small Business Development Center, School of Business and School of Social Welfare.  The program provides character-based loans up to $35,000 for start-up and expanding businesses in the Capital Region and Western NY. 

The SEED Program was developed to provide future and current entrepreneurs with capital to start/expand their business.  Selection for participation in the program and loan awards is based on the overall business concept and the character of the applicant.  The program provides participants with the necessary business model development and business skill development to be successful with their business and are supported by a Business Advisor from the Small Business Development Center, a professor and MBA intern consultants from the University at Albany's School of Business.

All accepted participants are required to participate in 11 weeks of training prior to their loan pitch.  The training classes include business skill development, business plan development, and peer support network.  

The Fall 2023 program is planned to be virtually via the Zoom and program platforms.  Consistent access to a computer is strongly recommended for all participants.

Following the training classes, each of the participants will pitch their concept to the loan committee for funding consideration.  The loan decision is based on the character of the application and the overall business concept.

All of the participants are supported throughout the program by University at Albany including:

• Business advisors of the Small Business Development Center 
• Interns from the MBA program at the School of Business