The Community Futures Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) is a business loans program that reduces the obstacles that people with disabilities or ongoing health issues may face when looking for financing. The program began in 1997 through funding from Western Economic Diversification and the support of the Community Futures network. In 2006, the EDP was expanded to provide specialized assistance directly to rural entrepreneurs with disabilities. At Community Futures, we believe that managing ongoing health or disability issues should not be a barrier to business success.

Nicolas and Marie’s Pizza, Pasta and Donair

An EDP loan helped Nicolas Kynigos grow a business with gourmet appeal.

“I didn’t have any experience working with Community Futures, but EDP guided me in the right direction.”

The mom and pop shop located at #4 2901 27th Street in Vernon is a piece of pizza heaven. The small space serves take-out pizzas, pastas, donairs and fresh salads all made with the freshest ingredients by Nicolas himself. And as an experienced restaurateur, his customers and clientele know Nicolas only serves the best.