For over a decade, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Business and Industry (B&I) Guaranteed Loan Program has been a catalyst for rural economic development—unlocking capital, supporting growth, and creating opportunities that change lives. According to a 2025 economic assessment by Summit LLC, this program helped create or save an estimated 750,000 jobs between 2012 and 2022, proving that strategic investment in rural America pays dividends for businesses, communities, and the economy as a whole.
At GLSUSDA, we specialize in connecting businesses to this powerful program—helping borrowers navigate the process, secure funding, and build for the future. Here’s an in-depth look at how the B&I program works, why it matters, and what its impact means for rural America.
The USDA Business and Industry Loan Program is designed to strengthen rural communities by improving access to credit for businesses operating in areas with populations under 50,000. Through government-backed guarantees of up to 80% of the loan amount, private lenders are encouraged to finance projects that might otherwise face roadblocks due to perceived risk or geographic challenges. This means businesses can secure better rates, longer terms, and more favorable conditions—opening the door for investments that fuel economic growth.
Eligible uses for B&I loan funds include:
Eligible borrowers include for-profit businesses, non-profits, cooperatives, federally recognized Tribes, and public entities—all within USDA-defined rural communities.
Loan amounts can be as high as $25 million , and with USDA guarantees, businesses can pursue projects with confidence and lenders can reduce risk exposure.
Summit’s report underscores the transformative nature of this program. Between 2012 and 2022, B&I investments supported 757,800 jobs nationwide. Nearly 200,000 jobs were added in the first year after investment, followed by more than 550,000 additional jobs over the next three years —demonstrating both immediate and sustained economic impact.
The efficiency of this program is remarkable. The federal government’s total cost for these jobs was approximately $331 million over ten years, which translates to just $438 per job created. For perspective, other federal job-creation programs can cost thousands—or even tens of thousands—per job . The USDA B&I Program stands out as one of the most cost-effective economic development tools available.
Job creation is just the beginning. According to Summit’s econometric analysis, counties receiving B&I investment also experienced:
The program’s flexibility is key. B&I loans have supported projects across 90+ industry subsectors , including:
This adaptability means rural communities can build on their unique strengths—rather than rely on one-size-fits-all solutions.
The B&I program has also extended into Opportunity Zones, economically distressed areas identified by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Between 2018 and 2024, B&I investments in these areas increased by nearly 60%, channeling capital where it’s needed most.
In 2025, USDA allocated a record $3.5 billion to the B&I program with a subsidy rate of just 0.2%—meaning the government spends only 20 cents for every $100 lent. Combined with streamlined processes under the OneRD Guarantee Initiative, participation has soared: in 2024, the program used 98.24% of its available funds, another all-time high.
As a national leader in USDA lending, GLSUSDA is uniquely positioned to help businesses leverage the B&I program for growth. Whether you’re looking to expand operations, acquire equipment, or create jobs, our team simplifies the process—guiding you through eligibility, structuring the loan, and securing approvals.
The USDA B&I Guaranteed Loan Program isn’t just a loan product—it’s a powerful economic engine that has reshaped rural America. With over 750,000 jobs created in the last decade and billions of dollars in private investment unlocked, the program demonstrates what’s possible when public and private sectors work together.
If you’re ready to bring this level of opportunity to your community or your business, GLSUSDA is here to make it happen.