Business Planning and Technical Assistance
Business planning is at the heart of the Community Development Partnership's (CDP) work with local fishermen. Producing a solid business plan is a requirement for fishermen applying to lease scallop quota from the Trust, or to participate in our microloan or revolving loan programs. It's a step that helps fishermen identify both strengths and weaknesses in their business models and get technical assistance.
With a viable business plan in hand, fishing entrepreneurs may seek financing and credit from any one of a number of Cape Cod lenders. That fuels healthy evolution for the fishing community: As businesses mature and gain improved access to capital, new entrants can benefit from the CDP's lending programs.
Beyond business planning, the CDP provides guidance to fishermen on subjects ranging from managing cash flow to working with lenders, and from managing employees to planning for retirement.