
Mendocino County has a tight-knit network of local lenders, nonprofit loan funds, and credit unions that serve small businesses, solo contractors, and real-estate investors — including those without a Social Security Number. This guide walks you through who qualifies, what documents you'll need, which local institutions actually serve this area, and how to protect yourself from predatory lenders. Federal programs like SBA loans are available, but the real entry point is usually a local CDFI or credit union that knows your community. Take your time, compare options, and never sign anything you don't fully understand.
Ask Iris. She'll explain it the way it should have been explained the first time.