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.

1. CDBG: Community Development Block Grant – Regular Fund
   ➤ Three funds available for a variety of economic development projects 
2. IRP: Intermediary Relending Program – USDA / MT Board of Investments
   ➤ Participation loans with banks for real estate & equipment
3. SSBCI 2.0: State Small Business Credit Initiative
   ➤ Participation loans with banks for real estate & major equipment
4. EDA: Economic Development Administration RLF
   ➤ Partner loans for real estate & major equipment
5. Big Sky Economic Development (BSED) RLF
   ➤ Montana-focused RLF supporting bank participation for growth projects
6. Brownfield Cleanup RLF
   ➤ Regional EPA-backed fund with SEMDC, EPEDC, and GNDC for environmental cleanup
7. Eastern Plains Economic Development Corp. (EPEDC)
   ➤ Administered and serviced in partnership with regional CRDCs via MOU

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.

📌 Now Accepting Applications – Tranche 3

This federally supported Loan Participation Program helps businesses access capital by partnering with local lenders to provide:

• 📉 Low fixed interest rates
• 🏗️ Funding for real estate, equipment, and working capital
• 🤝 Up to 50% participation from the state to reduce lender risk
• 🏢 For businesses with fewer than 750 employees
   

🔗 Learn more: Montana State Small Business Credit Initiative

Helping rural Montana thrive through strategic loan partnerships for:

• 🚜 Business expansion or startup support in rural areas 
• 💸 Low-interest or forgivable loans for eligible projects
• 👷 Focused on job creation, economic diversification, and long-term growth

🔗 Learn more: Opportunities in Rural Economies | Montana DOC

Helping Small Businesses Access Capital with Flexible, Low-Interest Financing

Struggling to meet conventional bank loan requirements? The RLF Program supports qualifying businesses with low fixed interest rates, flexible payment options, and participation financing to help close the gap when banks can’t finance the full loan. Whether it’s limited collateral, equity shortfall, or marginal credit. RLF loans can help make your project possible.

• Startups and existing small businesses
• Projects that require funding for real estate, equipment, or cleanup 
• Businesses ready to pledge available assets and personal guaranties
   

✔️ Work with your bank and RLF administrator to develop financing
✔️ Secure loan with available assets and personal guarantees
✔️ Get access to critical funding your business needs to grow

Contact your regional economic development organization such as SEMDC to explore your eligibility, connect with participating lenders, and get help with the application process.