ABOUT THE RMAP PROGRAM

The USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP) provides funding for Native CDFIs to support microbusiness development in Tribal and rural communities. This program offers both loans and grants to help intermediaries provide financial assistance, training, and technical support to Native entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Eligible Uses of RMAP Funding

  • Microloans to Native-owned small businesses (loans up to $50,000)
  • Technical assistance and training for microentrepreneurs
  • Business planning support and financial literacy education
  • Expanding access to credit in Native and rural communities

Who Can Apply?

  • Nonprofits.
  • Federally-recognized tribes.
  • Institutions of higher education.

Application Resources: Tools for a Successful Submission

USDA RMAP Website

Fact Sheet

RMAP RD Instruction 4280-D (2024)

RMAP Application Checklist (2010)

Contact Your State Office

Watch NCN Live

If you’re a Native CDFI or a Tribally focused lender looking to start (or grow your) lending to rural businesses in your community to create local jobs, or you provide loans, training and technical assistance specifically focused on rural microentrepreneurs, this webinar is for you. During this NCN Live webinar, representatives from USDA cover the range of project types that are eligible under the RMAP program in order to promote economic development and job creation, what types of entities are eligible to apply, funding cycles and how to best connect with your RD State Office if you’re interested in applying.