It’s a Jungle out There

Starting a business in a new country is hard—especially without savings or access to credit. Fortunately, there are dedicated funding and support programs in the U.S. for refugees and immigrants who want to launch small businesses.

You may not qualify for traditional bank loans right away, but there are alternative options tailored to people starting over.

Funding Support Programs for Refugees

SBA Microloans

• S. Small Business Administration offers loans up to $50,000.
• Administered through local non-profit lenders who often offer training and mentorship as well.
• Terms are flexible and require little or no collateral.

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/microloans

IRC Centre for Economic Opportunity

• Helps refugees and immigrants with low-interest small business loans (often $2,000–$15,000).
• No credit history required if you demonstrate a strong plan and stable income.
• Available in many states through the International Rescue Committee (IRC).

https://irc-ceo.org/what-we-do/our-loan-products.html

ORR Microenterprise Development Program

• Federal program through the Office of Refugee Resettlement.
  • Offers grants, loans, and training to help refugees start micro-businesses.
• Focused on businesses under 5 employees, including home-based and part-time ventures.

https://acf.gov/orr/programs/refugees/microenterprise-development

Documents You’ll Likely Need

• A simple business plan (even just 1–2 pages)
• Proof of identity and refugee/legal status
• Basic financial plan or estimate of start-up costs
• S. address and bank account (sometimes)
• EIN and business registration (some lenders require this upfront)

Real Example

In 2024, a group of refugees in North Carolina used SBA microloans to launch a lawn care business with only $3,000 in start-up costs. They were approved in less than 30 days because they had a basic plan, an EIN, and proof of address ready.

Bonus Support Options

• org – Free 1-on-1 business mentoring across the U.S.
  https://www.score.org/find-mentor
• SBDCs (Small Business Development Centres) – Help with loan prep and grant navigation.
  https://americassbdc.org/small-business-consulting-and-training/find-your-sbdc/
• Faith-based and local nonprofits – Many churches, synagogues, and refugee resettlement groups offer start-up funding, equipment donations, or discounted leases.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Asking for a loan without a plan: Even a basic roadmap and budget can dramatically improve your approval odds.
• Ignoring free mentorship or training: These can connect you with local opportunities you’d never find online.
• Assuming you need “perfect English” or a U.S. credit score—you don’t. Your work ethic, idea, and preparation matter most.