Hot Knots has been a staple on the Arcata Plaza since 1984. Founded by sisters Gayle and Andrea Shackleton, the business has become a cornerstone of the local shopping scene—carrying beloved brands like Free People and Levi’s alongside a carefully curated selection of local apparel and knitwear. In addition to retail operations, Hot Knots has developed a wholesale knitwear business built around handmade products produced by a Fair Trade women’s cooperative in Nepal.

When Alex Urquhart and Mariah Durand got married beneath the towering redwoods of Humboldt County, they never expected that their wedding would eventually inspire a business venture. But that’s exactly what happened. After falling in love with Humboldt, the couple decided to take a leap—turning their wedding-day experience into a full-time entrepreneurial journey.

North Edge has been officially certified as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s...

But the turning point for Crestmark Millworks came when they sought the support of the North Edge. "North Edge was able to come through...

With a supportive loan from North Edge, Jerry has been able to purchase a diverse range of classic and new arcade machines...

One of the biggest factors you need to apply for a loan is a business plan. This isn’t just a one-page summary...

Some businesses start slow. Maybe you’re providing a service for a few people and you decide to make that a permanent business.