STEP ONE:  Learn about the IDA Program

Entrepreneur Karina Potestio of Luna used an IDA Matching Grant to invest in business assets.

Karina Potestio of Luna purchased a sewing machine to expand
her business. - Photo: Bruce MacGregor for MercyCorps

Mercy Corps Northwest will match your small business savings three-to-one

Once you have established your IDA savings account and have saved $1,334, MCNW will match this with $4,000. You can then use the total of $5,334 for business assets.

Requirements to obtain matching grant funds

  • Attend an Orientation about MCNW programs
  • Turn in an IDA application
  • Meet with IDA staff to get enrolled
  • Save monthly in your IDA account. You choose the savings period: 6 to 24 months.
  • Take the Foundations business and financial training classes ($150 fee- scholarships are available)
  • Complete your business plan—with our help!
  • Come in for an IDA disbursal meeting to start purchasing your business assets

STEP TWO: See if you qualify