Introduction
The Residential Developer Borrower Training Program is a practice-based, in-person training designed to walk participants through every stage of preparing and completing a professional loan application. Developed by Taylor Business Institute (TBI) in partnership with the City of Chicago and the Chicago Community Loan Fund (CCLF), the program helps small developers, contractors, and local entrepreneurs understand the process, documentation, and structure necessary to secure funding for their projects.
Through interactive modules and guided workshops, participants learn to establish their business profiles, prepare complete loan application packages, develop project budgets, and understand lender expectations. By the end of the program, they gain the skills and confidence needed to apply for legitimate funding from organizations like CCLF and other Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI), as their business profiles strengthen, from traditional banking institutions.
This initiative helps community-based developers avoid predatory lending and sets a foundation for sustainable business growth — creating pathways for neighborhood revitalization and financial independence.
About
Delivered in person at Taylor Business Institute’s downtown Chicago campus, the program is free of cost to participants and structured around six interactive modules. Each session combines real-world case studies, facilitator-led instruction, and practical exercises to help participants prepare complete, lender-ready submissions and project portfolios.
This program represents TBI’s continuing commitment to community empowerment, economic development, and education that builds sustainable opportunity.
Program Structure
Evaluate neighborhoods, assess markets, and conduct pre-bid due diligence.
Build your legal foundation, biography, capability statement, and readiness folder.
Create project budgets, align funding sources, and assess credit readiness.
Prepare a CCLF loan application, develop project narratives, and compile documents.
Learn permitting, contractor management, and compliance processes.
Present your final loan package and plan next steps.
Quick Facts
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Program Type
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Non-Degree / Non-Credit
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Delivery Mode
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In-Person (Downtown Chicago Campus)
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Duration
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Six Modules + Capstone Portfolio
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Cost
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Free of charge for accepted participants
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Ideal For
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Aspiring developers, small contractors, local entrepreneurs
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Enrollment
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Announced periodically by CCLF
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Enrollment & Contact
Enrollment is coordinated by the Chicago Community Loan Fund (CCLF).
Participation in this program is free of cost for accepted applicants.
For early interest or inquiries, please contact Florence Davis at florence.davis@tbiil.edu.
Community Impact Statement
Through this initiative, Taylor Business Institute continues its mission to educate and empower diverse communities. By equipping residents and business owners with the tools to navigate financial systems and secure sustainable funding, TBI strengthens Chicago’s neighborhoods and promotes equitable economic development.
Community in Action
Program presentation and recognition ceremony
Photo Credit: All images courtesy of Taylor Business Institute’s Residential Developer Borrower Training Program.
