What Borrowers Need to Know About ILGP

Eligibility

To qualify for a loan through the program, you must be:

• An individual who is an enrolled member of a federally recognized AI/AN tribe or group
• A federally recognized AI/AN group
• A corporation, limited liability company, or other business entity with no less than 51 percent ownership by federally recognized AI/AN individuals

Loans may be used for a variety of purposes including operating capital, equipment purchases, acquisition and refinancing, building construction, and lines of credit.

Additionally, borrowers must be projected to have at least 20% equity in the project being financed and the project must benefit the economy of a reservation or tribal service area.

Limitations

The following types of businesses are ineligible for ILGP loans:

• Casinos
• Smoke shops
• Vape shops
• Businesses, a substantial purpose of which is to cultivate, prepare, package, transport, distribute, or sell tobacco or vaping products
• Breweries, wineries, or distilleries making products with over 20% alcohol by volume
• Brothels or other businesses involving prostitution

The maximum loan amount guaranteed for individuals is $500,000, but we’re able to guarantee loans of greater amounts for tribes, tribal enterprises, or business entities, subject to program and policy limitations.

Borrowers may apply for a loan through any lender that regularly engages in making loans. They’re not required to complete any government forms to participate in the program.

Read about how lenders apply for a loan guarantee.

Read about how lenders apply for loan insurance.

Read our Success Stories about businesses that benefited from our program.