Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program: $3.2 Million Available Through June 30, 2026

The USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service is accepting applications for the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program. The program offers $3.2 million to organizations that help rural microbusinesses through loans, training, and technical assistance.

What the Funding Covers

• Training for microloan borrowers and rural microentrepreneurs
• Technical assistance delivered through Microenterprise Development Organizations
• Microenterprise lending support tied to rural business development
• Programs that help very small businesses grow in rural communities

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants are domestic organizations that operate as Microenterprise Development Organizations. That includes nonprofit entities, Indian Tribes, and public institutions of higher education.

How to Apply

• Final deadline: June 30, 2026
• Funding: $3,200,000 total
• Award maximum: $100,000
• Expected awards: 20
• Apply: Grants.gov opportunity page
• Program fact sheet: USDA fact sheet

Source: Simpler.Grants.gov