
This guide helps solo contractors and small business owners in Arlington County, Virginia understand their financing options in plain, honest language. We focus on the local lenders, CDFIs, credit unions, and community organizations that actually serve Arlington — not just federal programs. Whether you have a Social Security Number or an ITIN, there are real pathways to capital here. Take your time, compare your options, and never feel pressured to sign anything quickly.
Every institution below comes from public federal data — the CDFI Fund certified list (Jan 2026), NCUA credit union data (Mar 2026), and the SBA microloan intermediary list — plus a short national tier we verified by hand. No listing is paid.
Nonprofit small-business lender. Accepts ITIN in place of SSN. Serves most states, in English and Spanish.
Microloans for women entrepreneurs. Requires photo ID and proof of address — no SSN requirement. Branches in major metro areas.
Zero-interest lending circles and credit building. SSN or ITIN accepted. Works through nonprofit partners across the country.
Ask Iris. She'll explain it the way it should have been explained the first time.