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Maryland Commerce Supports Nonprofit Organizations with $25,000 Micro Bridge Loans

BALTIMORE, MD (December 12, 2019) – The Maryland Department of Commerce today announced that six nonprofit organizations have each received $25,000 in short term financing through the Nonprofit, Interest-Free, Micro Bridge Loan Account (NIMBL). The organizations, ranging from a National Historic Landmark to social welfare advocates, will use the funding to assist with ongoing operating costs.

Created in 2017 and administered by the Maryland Nonprofit Development Center and Maryland Commerce, the NIMBL program provides qualifying nonprofits with funding up to $25,000 between the award date of a government grant or contract and the actual receipt of those funds.

“The state’s NIMBL program can provide the necessary assistance that nonprofits need to continue operations while awaiting government funding,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “We’re proud to work with the Maryland Nonprofit Development Center to help these organizations carry out their mission across the state.”

The nonprofit organizations receiving assistance include:  

The Maryland Nonprofit Development Center offers free technical assistance for nonprofit organizations of less than $750,000 in revenue and less than 10 years old, and is administered by Maryland Nonprofits.

“It’s so important for nonprofits to be able to offer critical programs and services while they are awaiting payment on a government grant,” said Heather Iliff, president & CEO of Maryland Nonprofits. “We are grateful to the state of Maryland for creating the NIMBL program that enables nonprofits to keep their programs up and running and avoid risks caused by cash flow difficulties.”

Nonprofits receiving NIMBL funding must be located in the state and determined by the Internal Revenue Service to be exempt from taxation under Section 501(c) (3), (4) or (6) under the Internal Revenue Code. Applications are only accepted from qualifying nonprofits with written confirmation from a government entity for funds via government grants or contracts that have not yet been received. Repayment of the loan can be no later than the date of the final grant or contract payment to the nonprofit. NIMBL loans can only be used for operating expenses.

To receive an application or obtain additional information, visit commerce.maryland.gov/nimbl.