Belay Enterprises offers the Ascent Venture Fund, a micro loan program that provides low-interest loans to Christ-centered businesses that create jobs and positively influence their neighborhoods. This program reflects Belay’s belief that small businesses are the engine of job creation in the local economy and a powerful tool to help the poor reach self-sufficiency. Ascent’s mission is to connect capital, intellectual resources and neighborhood entrepreneurship to create jobs and creditworthy, Christ-centered businesses. Area business leaders and churches will identify these companies with the potential to impact disadvantaged residents. Qualified entrepreneurs will be invited to provide a business plan as well as statement on how they will impact the community. The Fund plans to provide a limited number of micro loans in amounts from $1000-$10000 each year. In addition to providing funding, the Ascent Venture Fund also provides portfolio entrepreneurs with mentors from area Christian business leaders.

Belay Enterprises also offers the Carabineer Network, which provides business-networking opportunities for area businessmen and women. Named after the climbing hardware that connects hikers with their rope, the Carabineer Network will seek to partner the business community with job creation activities for the economically disadvantaged. These events, besides providing business contacts for the participants, will also develop both financial and volunteer resources for the Ascent Fund.

If you are an entrepreneur committed to the idea of touching lives for Christ through jobs or if you are a business leader interested in serving God by mentoring other business owners, please contact Belay Enterprises at 303-296-3990. [Download Application]