ATASCADERO — The City of Atascadero has unveiled a new Restaurant Incentive Loan Program designed to invigorate Downtown Atascadero by fostering partnerships between restaurateurs and landlords. This initiative aligns with the City Council’s Key Priorities, aiming to enhance economic vitality and investment in the heart of the City.

Under this program, the City, in collaboration with the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), will offer low-interest loans of up to $125,000 to eligible restaurateurs and landlords. The loans come with a competitive 4.25 percent interest rate and an 84-month term. Funding can be used for various non-construction-related expenses related to setting up a commercial kitchen, including equipment, machinery, fixtures, and furniture.

To qualify for this opportunity, restaurant owners or commercial building owners planning to lease to a restaurant must be located within the Downtown Commercial (DC) Zoning District. Additionally, restaurants must offer on-site dining, have or plan to install a Type 1 or 2 hood, and operate at least five days a week, serving two meals each of those days. This program extends its support to independent restaurants as well as chain restaurants with four or fewer establishments within the corporation.

The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), the region’s leading public-private economic development partnership, will provide valuable assistance to all loan applicants, offering free consulting and guidance throughout the application process and the duration of the loan.

For those interested in learning more about the Restaurant Loan Program or having questions about the application, the City and the EDC will hold an informational session on Monday, Sept. 25, at 1 p.m. The event will take place at City Hall, Room 106.

For more information on the Restaurant Loan Program or to view the loan application, visit edcollaborative.com/city-of-atascadero-restaurant-assistance-loan-fund/