South Eastern Economic Development (SEED) Corporation
South Eastern Economic Development (SEED) Corporation is a regional nonprofit economic development corporation with the mission of empowering entrepreneurs, strengthening local economies, and creating jobs by financing all types of small businesses in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With loan programs ranging from $1,000 micro loans to $5.5 million SBA 504 loans and a long history of assisting small business owners, SEED is a one-stop shop for anyone looking to start-up, grow, or streamline their business.
Our Story
The South Eastern Economic Development (SEED) Corporation is a nonprofit certified by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SEED was established in 1982 to improve the economy of the region by helping small businesses get started, grow, and create jobs. Over 40 years later, SEED continues to serve small businesses in Massachusetts and Rhode Island by financing all types of commercial projects and providing technical assistance to hundreds of existing and prospective entrepreneurs annually.
SEED administers four main loan programs: Fast Track Loans, SBA Micro Loans, Small Loans, and SBA 504 Loans. Prospective borrowers are able to work with SEED to determine which program best suits their financing needs and provides them the most favorable rate and terms. SEED's larger financing programs are designed to work in conjunction with local lending institutions interested in partnering on loan projects while also mitigating risks associated with the financing needs.
Through the Business Assistance Program, SEED provides technical assistance to existing and prospective clients looking for guidance as they start-up or scale their businesses. Under this program, SEED offers monthly entrepreneurial workshops, individual financing consultations, and business plan templates. In addition, SEED is also able to connect business owners with local mentors, lenders, entrepreneurial education programs, and government officials who can provide further assistance. These services are all free.
SEED has 40 directors and a strong network of members, all of whom represent community and business organizations, economic development agencies, local offices, lending institutions, and small businesses. The strength of this network and the flexibility of its lending programs have made SEED a regional staple for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs over the last four decades.
Annual Reports
2022 Annual Report (opens a pdf file)
2021 Annual Report (opens a pdf file)
2020 Annual Report (opens a pdf file)
Become a Member
As a non-profit corporation providing small business assistance and financing in MA and RI, SEED needs to have representation from its client base and area of coverage. SEED members serve as a support network. The role of a SEED member is to meet at a minimum once a year for elections, to act on by-laws if necessary, and to review the status of the corporation. Serving on the membership enables an individual to serve on the Board of Directors. There are no membership fees, and new members will be installed at SEED’s Annual Meeting.
