We are committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in rural America.
This grant program aims to support microenterprise development by offering both loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs). Its primary goals include aiding the startup and growth of microenterprises through the establishment of a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund, and providing training and technical assistance for microloan borrowers and micro-entrepreneurs. The program focuses on rural areas with populations under 50,000, ensuring that projects serving these communities are eligible, even if the MDO’s headquarters or the lender is based in a larger city. Financial support includes grants up to $205,000 for technical assistance, with a required 15 percent match of funds, and loans ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 to create a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund, with a total debt cap of $2.5 million for any participating organization.