Harvest Pizzeria owner Chris Crader is giving back to the organization that helped him open his first restaurant by donating a portion of his restaurant’s proceeds during Small Business Week. Crader credits the Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) for playing a crucial role in his success, stating that he doesn’t believe his restaurant would be where it is today without their support.
As the nation’s largest Small Business Administration microlender, ECDI provides loans and expertise to small businesses. They have a track record of helping entrepreneurs like Crader, having provided over $177 million in loans since their establishment in 2004 and offering educational services to more than 32,000 individuals looking to start or expand their businesses.
When Crader and his wife were unable to secure loans from commercial banks for their restaurant, ECDI stepped in to provide them with a $75,000 loan through federal programs designed to support small-business owners, including women and U.S. military veterans. They also received valuable business-coaching services from ECDI to help them navigate the challenges of opening a restaurant.
Today, Harvest Pizzeria has multiple locations, thanks in part to the support they received from ECDI. Crader’s decision to give back to the organization is a testament to the impact of their work and his commitment to helping others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
