Incentives Programs for Thayer County Businesses

Rural Business Investment Program

What does this program do?

This program provides a Rural Business Investment Company (RBIC) license to newly formed venture capital organizations to help meet the equity capital investment needs in rural communities.

Who may apply for this program?

Eligible applicants for the RBIC license include newly formed:

  • For-profit entities, or
  • Subsidiary of an entity

All applicants:

  • Must have relevant experience in venture capital or community development financing
  • Must raise a minimum of $10 million in private equity capital
  • May be structured as limited partnerships, limited liability companies or corporations

What is an eligible area?

There are no restrictions on the location of eligible applicants for RBIC licenses. The goal of each RBIC is to help fill the need for business and development capital in rural areas.

How may funds be used?

  • A minimum of 75 percent of funds must be made in rural areas with a population of 50,000 or less.
  • A minimum of 50 percent of funds must be invested in smaller enterprises.
  • A maximum of 10 percent of RBIC investments may be made in urban areas.

How do we get started?

Applications for this program are accepted on an annual basis. A Notice of Solicitation of Applications (NOSA) will be listed on our NOSA page.

Who can answer questions?

David Chesnick can assist with planning, application and servicing. He can be reached at (202) 690-0433 or David.Chesnick@wdc.usda.gov.

What governs this program?

  • Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR Part 4290
  • This program is authorized by the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (2008 Farm Bill)

Why does USDA Rural Development do this?

Access to capital is vital to businesses and often is scarce in rural areas.

Category: USDA Rural Development, Federal Incentives

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