What does this program do?
This program provides 1 percent low-interest loans to local lenders or “intermediaries” that re-lend to businesses to improve economic conditions and create jobs in rural communities.

Who may apply to be an intermediary lender?
The following are eligible:

• Nonprofits and cooperatives
• Federally-recognized tribes
• Public agencies

The following are eligible to apply for a loan from the intermediary lender as an ultimate recipient. Ultimate recipients may be individuals, public or private organizations or other legal entities, given that:

• • • Majority ownership is held by U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
    • The applicant owes no delinquent debt to the Federal Government.
    • The applicant is unable to obtain affordable commercial financing for the project elsewhere.
    • The project is located in an eligible rural area – Check Eligibility.
    • The applicant has no legal or financial interest or influence in the work of the intermediary lender.

Are there other requirements?
Intermediary lenders must have:

• • The legal authority to operate a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF).
  • A record of successfully assisting rural businesses and communities, normally including experience making and servicing commercial loans.
  • The ability to provide adequate assurance of repayment of the loan.