Capital Access Program

Program Purpose

New York State’s Capital Access Program (CAP) is a newly expanded $19 million program that will provide matching funds to financial institutions for loan loss reserves as an incentive to increase small business lending.  New York State has significantly expanded the CAP with more funding and by increasing the range of financial institutions that can participate.  CAP can used with term loans or lines of credit, on financing for working capital needs, technology or facility upgrades, business startups or business expansions. NYS small businesses can utilize CAP by contacting a participating lender who will conduct their own loan application process and determine loan terms.

Participating Lenders

Financial institutions must enter into a Capital Access Program Lender Agreement with Empire State Development before enrolling loans. For more information on how to become a participating lender, please see the Program Overview.

Small Businesses Inquiries

For small businesses interested in New York State programs or financing, please contact the NYS Small Business Division at (800) 782-8369 or nylovessmbiz@esd.ny.gov.

Contact Information
For Capital Access Program inquiries, please contact nyscap@esd.ny.gov