Areas Served: BELTRAMI, CLEARWATER, HUBBARD, KITTSON, LAKE OF THE WOODS, MAHNOMEN, MARSHALL, NORMAN, PENNINGTON, POLK, RED LAKE, ROSEAU COUNTIES


The Northwest Minnesota Foundation provides an SBA Micro Loan fund for businesses in northwestern Minnesota.

Loan Overview

  • Retail, service, manufacturing and other business types are generally eligible.
  • Loan funds can be used for equipment, inventory and working capital.
  • Real estate, building purchase or construction are not eligible.
  • The maximum loan amount is $35,000. There is no minimum.
  • Refinancing of existing debt is not eligible.
  • Loan terms can be up to six years and the payment schedules depend on the cash flow.
  • The current interest rate is 7.5%, fixed for the term.
  • All loans must have collateral and are typically subordinate to a lead bank (if involved).

Eligible Activities and Use of Funds

  • Value-added manufacturing and processing.
  • Technologically innovative industries.
  • Agri-processing, marketing and specialty crops production.
  • Tourism and information industries.
  • Goods and services that enhance Quality of Place.
  • Funds may be used for working capital, inventory, equipment, land and buildings.
  • Ineligible activities include general retail businesses and conventional agricultural production.

General Policies

  • Funding gaps must exist.
  • 50% financing from private sources required.
  • Minimum down payment of 10% required.
  • Jobs must be created or retained with acceptable wage levels.
  • Minority applicants are encouraged to apply.
Contact Information Northwest Minnesota Foundation Address: 4225 Technology Drive, NW City: Bemidji State: Minnesota Website: https://www.nwmf.org/

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