invest and borrow
WHERE YOU LIVE
Transition Salt Spring Enterprise Co-op
is a volunteer-run community investment co-op established in 2011 to enable islanders to invest in their community. Co-op members pool their money together to directly support local businesses and projects through our Green Loans Salt Spring program. We provide low-interest financing and related mentoring support to projects and enterprises on Salt Spring Island that advance community objectives such as increased community resilience, food security, community and ecosystem health, and climate change adaptation and mitigation.
As of January 2024, the Co-op has provided more than $247,000 in microloans to support 37 green projects on the island, including loans for heat pumps, water tanks, solar projects, business start-ups, the EV charging station at ArtSpring, the community Abattoir, and Island Pathways projects. And the list keeps growing!
INVEST
Make an impact in your community and invest in the place you call home.
BORROW
Learn if you are eligible for a microloan.
Green Loan Recipients
Poppy’s Place
Local businesswoman Brette Little opened Poppy’s Place in August on Rainbow Road across from the School District complex. Her enthusiasm for supporting those who work virtually and/or who need to find a quiet place to work is infectious! Our loan to her supported furnishing what is now a welcoming and well-appointed space. “Poppy’s Place is…
Read More Madrona Integrative Health
Our loan continues to support Madrona Integrative Health’s business as they look forward to expanding their services. “Health Madrona Integrative Health continues to grow while at the same time navigating the challenges of operating a business on our island – staff retention and stable staff housing primary among them. After two years at our location…
Read More Dos Amores Tortillería
“I want my food to leave you feeling nostalgic for Mexico.” -Chef Deb Located in Merchant Mews, TSSEC supported the purchase of equipment to help owners Miranda and Deb grow their Dos Amores Tortillería business. “Quick-service fresh Mexican food to-go, organic corn tortillas + hosts of the yearly Día de los Muertos: Community Ofrenda. Dos…
Read More Axe and Reel Emporium
Axe and Reel Outdoor Emporium, located at 111 Rainbow Road sells gently used outdoor sporting goods and work wear. New goods include work and hiking boots, wool and cotton socks, and a variety of work pants and shirts. The store fills the gap in the market for work wear for the trades and service industry while…
Read More Bohemia Consignment
Bohemia Consignment, located at 111 Rainbow Road is a green business by nature. During its 4 year life it has built a 100% recycled, previously worn inventory. It offers locals access to quality affordable clothing appealing to all styles and sizes. Everything about Bohemia is local – it sources locally, sells locally, the consignors generate revenue…
Read More Shepherd Shoes
Shepherd Shoes is a new Salt Spring business that blends the making of shoes and accessories with a repair service. It is located at 320A Upper Ganges Road (across from Merchant Mews). The brand is an artisan line of classic styles, hand crafted footwear and accessories that are produced and sold locally with an emphasis…
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