USDA-RD Intermediary Relending Program

ABOUT THE IRP PROGRAM

The USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) is a vital funding source for Native CDFIs seeking to increase access to capital for small businesses and economic development projects in Tribal communities. This program provides low-interest loans to intermediaries, such as Native CDFIs, who then establish revolving loan funds to finance rural business development projects and community improvement efforts.

Eligible Uses of IRP Funding

Starting or expanding rural businesses
Buying equipment or real estate
Working capital for small businesses
Community development and job creation
Infrastructure tied to business growth

Who Can Apply?

Intermediary Lenders
Nonprofits and cooperatives.
Federally-recognized tribes.
Public agencies.
Cooperatives

Ultimate Recipients

Individuals, businesses, or organizations located in rural areas (≤50,000 population)
At least 51% U.S. citizen ownership
Ineligible for affordable commercial credit
No delinquent federal debt

Application Process

For Intermediaries:

Submit Form RD 4274-1, project summary, environmental checklist, and required certifications
Application deadlines are quarterly: Sept 30, Dec 31, Mar 31, Jun 30
Submit to your State USDA RD Office

For Ultimate Recipients:

Find a participating intermediary
Apply directly through them with your business plan, financials, and project summary

Loan Terms

To intermediaries: 1% interest, up to 30 years (interest-only possible for first 3 years)
To ultimate recipients: Loan terms and rates set by intermediary (must be affordable and fair)
Max per year: $1M to intermediaries, $400K or 50% of project cost to ultimate recipients

Application Resources: Tools for a Successful Submission

USDA IRP Website

Fact Sheet

IRP RD Instruction 4274-D

IRP Application for Loan Instructions for RD4274-0001

Federal Register Notices

Contact Your State Office

Why Should I Consider This Program?

Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund expanded lending capital through USDA IRP ($500,000) to grow business outreach and development and developed new partnerships with Thurston County EDC to extend rural outreach and technical support.
Spruce Root deployed $1 million through IRP over 10+ years to support brick-and-mortar, tourism, and regenerative businesses, including a standout loan for a local couple’s eco-tourism boat business that continues to thrive.
The program acted as a connector and guide for other local Native organizations and entrepreneurs seeking USDA support, building broader access to resources across Southeast Alaska.
This funding can be a turning point that allows your organization to expand lending efforts and build capacity.
WINLF used USDA funding to hire new staff and invest in outreach, leading to a more robust lending pipeline and improved borrower support.
USDA programs rely on your expertise as the local lender.

“We’re building generational wealth through homeownership, business development, and financial education.”

Tamra Marlowe De Nova / Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund

“When we finally got the USDA IRP award, it felt like a turning point, we finally had something to work with, to build from.”

David Gowens / Wisconsin Native Loan Fund

Tips for Success with IRP

1. Read and follow USDA instructions carefully

Government language requires attention and clarity.

2. Ensure internal capacity before applying

Align your strategic plan, financial readiness, and reporting capabilities.

3. Pair lending with technical assistance

This is essential for the impactful deployment of USDA funds.

4. Strategic planning matters

Know your limits and capacity before applying for additional programs.

5. Start conversations early

It’s important to start early when you’re considering USDA programs, especially IRP.

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 and IRP programs 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.

Interviews

In this section, we feature candid conversations between a Native CDFI leader and a USDA State Director, offering real-world perspectives on specific USDA programs impacting Native communities. Each interview highlights success stories, lessons learned, and personal insights—covering how they got started, the challenges they faced, and what made their collaboration effective. These stories provide valuable guidance and inspiration for others looking to implement similar efforts.