Local business benefits from Southwest Initiative Foundation microloan program
Brownton, Minn.— Larry and Karen Severson, who own EZ Hands Free Products Company recently received loan assistance from the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program to begin manufacturing of his hunting accessories. The first product to launch will be the Gun Slinger – a patent pending, universal, very adaptable, adjustable gun sling (an over-the-shoulder strap) for sport hunting rifles. It fits any gun and features a comfortable nonslip shoulder pad. The ‘Instant-Off’ front buckle feature allows a hunter to quickly take off the strap when needed. The slings are also adaptable to bow hunters.
Larry Severson has a number of products he has been working on and off over years. Now that he’s retired, he has been able to spend more time on his inventions – refining and field testing them. He is excited to be bringing his products to market. You may contact Severson at (507) 521-2912 or email him at [email protected] EZ Hands Free Products are available on Amazon, and their website at www.ezgunsslinger.com
“SWIF is pleased to assist the Seversons with the start up of business operations,” said SWIF Program Coordinator, Berny Berger. “This has been a life-long dream for Larry, and he has put a lot of his heart and soul into his inventions over the years. Finally bringing them to market, and succeeding in getting his product on Amazon, is a great accomplishment.”
Loan programs have been a key function of SWIF since its inception as a way to support communities and businesses throughout southwest Minnesota. In 2001, microlending was added to existing programs as a tool to support small businesses and people looking for self-employment opportunities by providing market-rate loans.
Microloan clients receive free technical assistance from SWIF staff—all who have personal business experience—to improve their business management skills, from business planning to reading financials to marketing and other training opportunities for the life of the loan.
This microloan program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture. For more information, contact SWIF at 800-594-9480, 320-587-4848 or [email protected].
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a single connection offering unlimited possibilities to grow and promote people, businesses, entrepreneurs and communities in rural southwest Minnesota. As a regional community foundation, SWIF has contributed more than $69 million through its grant and loan programs. SWIF has helped more than 660 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which have created or retained more than 8,400 jobs. SWIF has also established 16 Early Childhood Initiative coalitions, 24 community foundations and more than 90 school, donor-advised and other funds. The Southwest Initiative Foundation is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To learn more, visit www.swifoundation.org.
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