PDP understands the importance of coupling business development services with access to capital, particularly for entrepreneurs who lack collateral and have no or poor credit. Without access to capital, the barriers to sustainable business start-up and expansion remain insurmountable.

Through PDP's lending arm, The Heldring Fund, entrepreneurs who become members of a CCW chartered peer group are eligible to apply for loans graduating in steps from $500 to $5,000. Individual members make loan requests through their peer group and the group as a whole decides whether or not to approve a loan. The borrower is not required to put up collateral or reveal their credit history. If approved by the peer group, PDP's CDFI makes the loan to the individual entrepreneur. The ability of each peer group member to apply for further loans is conditioned by their repayment record and that of their other group members. In this way, each entrepreneur is encouraged to support and work with each of the other individuals in his or her peer group to ensure that all can repay their initial loans. This methodology also provides the group members a strong incentive to make responsible choices when approving loans.

Entrepreneurs, regardless of whether or not they are participating in a peer group, are eligible for a direct loan product that was launched in 2002. The Small Business Loan (SBL) program offers loans that range from $1,500 to $25,000. SBL applicants are assigned to work directly with a PDP business development consultant, who assists with the application process. Unlike peer loans, applying for a SBL requires a credit check and assignment of collateral.