U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that the Department is seeking applications from local lenders for funding to help create jobs and improve economic conditions for people in rural communities.
The funding is being made available under the Intermediary Relending Program. The program provides low-interest loans to local lenders known as intermediaries, who then relend the funds to businesses to improve economic conditions and create new opportunities in rural communities. Eligible intermediary lenders include nonprofit corporations, cooperatives, federally recognized Tribes and public agencies.
Loans from an intermediary to an ultimate recipient business may be used for a variety of activities, including:
- acquire, build, convert, expand or repair a business or business facility.
- purchase or develop land.
- purchase equipment, machinery or supplies, or make leasehold improvements.
- support start-up costs and working capital.
- control and abate pollution.
- support transportation services.
Applications are accepted on quarterly basis and must be submitted to the applicant’s local Rural Development State Office no later than 4:30 p.m. (local time) by the following dates:
- First Quarter: Sept. 30, 2023.
- Second Quarter: Dec. 31, 2023.
- Third Quarter: March 31, 2024.
- Fourth Quarter: June 30, 2024.
USDA is offering priority points to projects that advance key priorities under the Biden-Harris Administration to help communities to create more and better market opportunities, advance equity, and combat climate change. These extra points will increase the likelihood of funding for projects that will advance these key priorities in rural places.
Eligible applications that are not funded in the quarter received will automatically compete for funding in up to three additional quarters.
For additional information, see page 63050 of the Sept. 14, 2023, Federal Register.
