SEMDC Loan Programs

Financial Services

* SEMDC currently has access to Seven (7) different “participation financing” programs for the small

business community. SEMDC Loan Officer Amber Hert provides a funding link between the banking

and small business communities to make deals happen, thus creating economic activity in the private

sector. Since 2010, SEMDC has made direct loans of over $5.2 million while partnering with area

financial institutions. SEMDC continues to collaborate with regional banks rather than compete with them.

* SEMDC also has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in place with the Eastern Plains Economic

Development Corporation (EPEDC). This mutually beneficial partnership allows SEMDC to provide

RLF administration and services to EPEDC and its service region of five (5) additional counties.

Loans for Startup or Expansion

Qualified applicants may borrow funds at a low fixed interest rate. The loan proceeds may be used for fixed assets. Credit decisions are based on a business plan that notes repayment ability, credit, and management capability. Because SEMDC works closely with each applicant, criteria such as collateral and credit history are evaluated individually.  The terms and conditions of each loan depend on the applicant’s needs, business plan, and collateral’s useful life. Completed applications and business plans are submitted to the SEMDC Revolving Loan Fund Committee for evaluation and decision.

Revolving Loan Fund Programs 2025

The RLF program assists qualifying small businesses with low fixed interest rates and flexible payment options. Participation financing is needed at times when a conventional bank lender cannot loan the full amount needed or a proposed loan application doesn’t meet their underwriting requirements. This can happen because of insufficient collateral, equity or marginal credit. To secure the loan, the borrower must pledge available assets including personal guaranties of the principals.

1) CDBG: Regular Fund (3) CDBG’s

2) IRP: Loan – USDA / MT BOI: Participation Loans with Banks Real Estate & Equipment

3) SSBCI: Participation Loans with Banks on Real Estate & Major Equipment

4)EDA: Participation Loans with Banks

Real Estate & Major Equipment

5) Big Sky Economic Development RLF (BSED): Montana RLF Program Participation Loans with Banks

Real Estate & Major Equipment

6) Brownfield Cleanup: Regional Program with SEMDC,

EPEDC and GNDC to EPA. (E. MT Brownfield Coalition)

7) Eastern Plains EDC: Administration / Servicing.

Partnership MOU in place with neighboring CRDC