With the global economy in turmoil right now, the concept of The Dandelion Community Investment Cooperative is timely. People are losing not only money from their investments but also confidence in the investment markets. People are beginning to realize their investments have done little to provide a stable and thriving economy at home in their own community.
The Dandelion Community Investment Cooperative (The Dandelion for short) is looking to assist people with good ideas. We will help our clients financially to develop their new project here at home, in their own community, where it counts. Our community needs entrepreneurs in small business, agricultural and artistic pursuits. In addition, we’ve made a commitment to support innovative projects that enhance our natural surroundings through environmental responsibility.
The Dandelion can also service clients that may not be eligible to secure loans in the conventional manner. While traditional channels of financing (banks) mathematically assess risk based on financial data, The Dandelion takes more qualitative measures into account such as community involvement and character references. Although a credit check is a part of the process, a positive connection to the community is a main criterion for any application.
The client's business plan must demonstrate a realistic market potential for its products or services and an ability to repay the loan while meeting the day-to-day operating needs of the business. The Valley Credit Union, located down the road in New Minas, will ensure a fair repayment and interest plan by overseeing all the approved applicants.
The Dandelion investor now has an opportunity to make a difference by investing in their own community. This new way of doing things will create jobs and bring the global economy home.
All around us there are citizens with skills, ideas and entrepreneurial ventures that can help to provide stability and sustainability in the towns and villages where we live. While selecting which investments to support this tax season, you now have another option that results in community returns.
Local people conceived The Dandelion as a way to support and encourage new locally owned businesses, artistic efforts and agricultural ventures through the financial support of local community investors like you! You can be part of a local, sustainable solution right here at home.
The Dandelion Community Investment Cooperative has been incorporated as a For Profit Cooperative. A Board of Directors elected by the members will govern and make the ultimate decisions regarding applicants. A Manager/Administrator will handle the day-to-day proceedings of the cooperative and be the liaison between the clients, the mentoring committee, and the Board.
