For Businesses & Entrepreneurs
Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur in Appalachia looking for small business loans, funding, or growth support? The DeepRoots Support Network connects you with CDFIs and resource providers across North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania who understand your unique challenges.
- Small Business Loans & Capital Access: Find loan products and CDFI financing tailored to your business needs
- Technical Assistance: Connect with providers offering business planning, financial literacy, and growth strategies
- Streamlined Discovery: One platform to discover multiple funding and support resources
- Local Understanding: Work with lenders and advisors who know the Appalachian market
Overview
The DeepRoots Support Network is an initiative by Appalachian Community Capital designed to bridge the gap between Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and small businesses across Appalachia. We connect entrepreneurs in underserved communities with the lenders and support organizations best positioned to help them grow.
By centralizing access to small business loans, CDFI funding, and technical assistance, DeepRoots removes barriers and creates a stronger regional economy — one business at a time.
Resource Providers by Type
Providers by State Coverage
Box size represents number of providers servicing each state
Program Benefits
The DeepRoots Support Network creates value for the entire Appalachian small business ecosystem:
- For Communities: Increased access to capital drives local economic development and job creation
- For Businesses: Simplified discovery of resources means faster access to the support you need
- For Providers: Efficient lead generation and collaboration opportunities expand your impact
- For the Region: A stronger network of CDFIs builds long-term financial resilience across Appalachia
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CDFI financing and the DeepRoots network
What is a CDFI?
A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) is a specialized lender certified by the U.S. Treasury Department that provides affordable financing to underserved communities and small businesses. CDFIs focus on borrowers who may not qualify for traditional bank loans, offering more flexible underwriting criteria and often pairing loans with hands-on technical support.
Who qualifies for these loans?
DeepRoots serves small business owners and entrepreneurs located in Appalachian communities across North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Eligibility requirements vary by provider, but CDFIs are specifically designed to work with businesses that face barriers to mainstream financing — including startups, rural businesses, and minority-owned enterprises.
How do I apply or get connected?
Browse our provider directory to find a CDFI or technical assistance organization serving your state. Click on any provider to learn more about their programs and contact details. You can also reach out directly to DeepRoots at info@accdata.org and we will help match you with the right resource.
What states does DeepRoots serve?
DeepRoots currently connects businesses in seven Appalachian states: North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Our network also includes one nationwide provider available to qualifying businesses anywhere in the country.
Is there a cost to use DeepRoots?
No. Exploring our network and connecting with resource providers through DeepRoots is completely free for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Individual lending or assistance programs may have their own fees or interest rates, which each provider will explain during the application process.
What is the difference between a loan provider and a technical assistance provider?
Loan providers — typically CDFIs and community lenders — offer direct financing such as small business loans, lines of credit, and capital access programs. Technical assistance providers offer non-financial support including business planning, financial literacy coaching, marketing guidance, and workforce training to help your business grow sustainably.
How is DeepRoots different from a traditional bank?
Unlike traditional banks, the CDFIs and community lenders in the DeepRoots network specialize in serving businesses in underserved Appalachian communities. They typically offer more flexible underwriting criteria, lower barriers to entry, and wrap-around support services. Their mission is community development — not just profit — so they invest time understanding your specific situation.