Tinian, CNMI — The Tinian Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Northern Marianas College, in partnership with the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority (CEDA), hosted an in-person workshop at the NMC Tinian Center to connect local entrepreneurs with CEDA’s business loan team. The event brought together SBDC clients, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs to learn more about CEDA’s business loan programs and the new State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0.
The SSBCI 2.0 is a federally funded program through the U.S. Department of the Treasury designed to expand access to capital for small businesses—especially those in underserved and rural communities. The initiative supports lending and investment programs across states and territories, helping businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen local economies. In the CNMI, CEDA serves as the implementing agency for SSBCI 2.0, managing funds to help local businesses access the capital they need to start, sustain, or scale their operations.
During the workshop, the CEDA loan team provided participants with an in-depth overview of available financing options, eligibility requirements, and the application process. The session also included an open discussion where attendees could share their experiences, ask questions, and explore strategies for building business credit and readiness for future funding opportunities.
“I attended this training primarily to gain information, as it was my first time participating in one of CEDA’s presentations,” said John Attao, owner of Tinian General Services. “Although I had previously heard mixed feedback about CEDA, I was thoroughly impressed by the representatives’ professionalism and depth of knowledge. I now feel more confident and informed to make a well-considered decision when applying for a loan. Thank you to CEDA and Tinian SBDC for this valuable session.”
“Our goal has always been to make sure that Tinian’s business community knows what resources are available to them,” said Benjamin Huk Borja, Tinian SBDC Director and Business Advisor. “Collaborations like this with CEDA give our local entrepreneurs the confidence and connections they need to take their business ideas to the next level. It’s about making sure they have the tools—and the access—to grow right here at home.”
“We want to thank Tinian SBDC for organizing this training event. CEDA appreciates every opportunity to educate Tinian’s entrepreneurs about how our loan programs can help them achieve their business goals,” said Tinian CEDA Office Field Representative Alexis Hofschneider.
The Tinian SBDC and CEDA have long collaborated to extend outreach and resources to the island community—jointly encouraging business growth, financial literacy, and economic development. Through ongoing efforts like this workshop, both agencies continue to strengthen their shared mission of helping Tinian’s small businesses succeed and thrive in the evolving economic landscape.
For more information, visit www.cnmisbdc.com or contact the Tinian SBDC office at (670) 237-9211 or the Lead Center in Saipan at (670) 237-6888. Or send us an email at cnmisbdc@marianas.edu. Follow us on social media for updates: Instagram @cnmisbdc and Facebook at CNMI Small Business Development Center Network for the latest information.
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