The following is a list of federal programs that provide grants, loans, and technical assistance for community-based economic development projects related to capital and investment. See additional lists of other federal programs here.
Programs and their requirements are subject to change, so please check department websites for current information.
Business & Industry Loan Guarantees
Department of Agriculture
Open Year-Round
The Business & Industry Loan Guarantee program offers loan guarantees to lenders for their loans to rural businesses. Eligible lenders include federal and state-chartered banks, savings and loans, Farm Credit Banks with direct lending authority, and credit unions. Funds must serve rural areas with populations of 50,000 people or fewer, and may be used for business development, purchase and development of land, buildings, and associated infrastructure, the installation of machinery and equipment, debt refinancing that improves cash flow and creates jobs, and business and industrial acquisitions when the loan will maintain business operations and create or save jobs.
Intermediary Relending Program
Department of Agriculture
Open Year-Round
The Intermediary Relending Program provides low-interest loans to intermediaries that re-lend to businesses aiming to alleviate poverty and stimulate economic activity and employment in rural communities, especially disadvantaged and remote communities. Funds may be used to make loans financing a variety of local business projects and costs. Eligible intermediaries include nonprofits, cooperatives, federally-recognized tribes, and public agencies.
Rural Business Investment Program
Department of Agriculture
Open Year-Round
The Rural Business Investment Program provides a Rural Business Investment Company (RBIC) license to newly formed developmental capital organizations to help meet the equity capital investment needs in rural communities. At least 75% of funds must be made in rural areas with a population of 50,000 or less, and at least 50% of funds must be invested in smaller enterprises. Eligible applicants for the RBIC license include newly formed for-profit entities or subsidiaries of an entity.
Business Loan Program
Small Business Administration
Open Year-Round
The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a range of loan programs for small businesses. These loans are made through lenders, who receive financial guarantees, guidelines, and other assistance from the SBA. Eligibility requirements vary by lender and loan programs.