Self study courses have been developed for loan program staff and other interested learners on various topics related to establishing and maintaining an alternative financing or telework program. Each course is based on one or more lectures. They have Power Point presentations, accompanying narrative, additional information and resources and self assessment questions.

Courses:

• Alternative Lenders: Community Development Lenders
  Alternative financing and telework programs are required to partner with a commercial lending institution or organization or state financing agency. Finding lending partners that share common values as the alternative financing program can be a challenge. Community development lenders often share similar missions and may be likely partners for an AFP or Telework Program. This course looks at community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and community development credit unions (CDCUs). It gives some basic information about these institutions and provides some insight as to why these lenders might make good partners. August 2004.
  
  
• Alternative Lenders: Micro Enterprise Lenders
  Alternative financing and telework programs are often asked to provide loans or facilitate loans for those individuals with disabilities starting a business or expanding an existing business. Micro enterprise development organizations may be likely partners for an AFP or Telework Program. These programs have expertise assisting borrowers with business loans. This course looks at community development micro enterprise organizations. It gives some basic information about these organizations and provides some guidance in what to look for in a micro enterprise lender to become a potential partner. August 2004