Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program - Virginia

From USDA: Rural Development (RD)

We are committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in rural America.

Type of Support

Overview

This program is designed to support Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) through loans and grants, aiding in the startup and growth of microenterprises, particularly in rural areas. The broad goal is to foster economic development by providing MDOs with a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund, as well as training and technical assistance for microloan borrowers and micro-entrepreneurs. To qualify, MDOs must have experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund or demonstrate adequate training and capacity to manage such a fund, along with a successful track record as an intermediary lender under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or equivalent. The program offers grants specifically for technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, with annual funding up to $205,000, requiring at least 15 percent in matching funds.

Eligibility

Organization's Location
USA
Program Location
VA
Organization Type
Nonprofits
Federally-recognized tribes
Institutions of higher education
Other
  • Rural areas outside a city or town with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents
  • The borrower’s headquarters may be based within a larger city as long as the project service area is located in an eligible rural area
  • The lender may be located anywhere
  • Businesses located in an eligible area with 10 or fewer full-time employees are eligible to apply for a loan from the MDO

Ineligibility

Urbanized areas near a city of 50,000 or more
up to 500k

Submission

Visit Apply for more information.

Similar grants