At Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, we believe strong communities are built by supporting the businesses that power them. That’s why we’re proud to partner with organizations like the Charitable Foundation of the Islands to help local entrepreneurs access capital, create jobs and invest in their future.
Small businesses are the backbone of communities throughout Southwest Florida, creating jobs, providing essential services and contributing to the unique character of the places we call home. When local businesses succeed, the benefits extend far beyond their storefronts, strengthening the local economy and enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
One example of this impact can be found on Sanibel, where the Accelerate Small Business Loan Program is helping island entrepreneurs move beyond recovery and invest in long-term growth.
Created through a partnership with the Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI), Accelerate provides low-interest loans to eligible Sanibel and Captiva businesses, helping owners access the capital needed to rebuild, expand and create new opportunities. SanCap Bank supports the program by providing underwriting, loan servicing and administrative expertise at no cost, allowing more funds to remain focused on helping local businesses thrive.
For Lighthouse Café owner Dan Billheimer, the program provided an opportunity to take the next step forward.
Following Hurricane Ian, Billheimer rebuilt the beloved restaurant in a new location and envisioned expanding its offerings through a dedicated dinner service. An Accelerate loan helped provide the flexibility needed to make that vision a reality.
The restaurant launched dinner service in late 2025, creating six new jobs and expanding dining options for island residents and visitors. For Billheimer, the investment represented more than a business opportunity. It was another milestone in the ongoing recovery and growth of a longtime local favorite.
Stories like Lighthouse Café demonstrate the power of community partnerships and local investment. While every business journey is different, access to capital can often mean the difference between maintaining the status quo and pursuing meaningful growth.
As communities across Southwest Florida continue to evolve, SanCap Bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that help local businesses succeed. By working alongside organizations like CFI, we can help ensure that entrepreneurs have the resources they need to strengthen their businesses, create jobs and contribute to the long-term vitality of the communities they serve.
Accelerate continues to offer eligible Sanibel and Captiva businesses access to low-interest financing of up to $100,000, helping entrepreneurs turn plans for growth into reality while strengthening the island economy.
Sanibel and Captiva businesses interested in applying should email [email protected] and include a phone number to request an application. Following a pre-screening call, qualified applicants will receive instructions for submitting a secure online application and supporting documentation.
For more information about the Accelerate Small Business Loan Program, call 239-322-3818 and select Option 3 for Small Business Inquiries, email [email protected], or visit www.charitablefoundationoftheislands.org/accelerate.
