Opportunities in Rural Economies Loan Participation Program Comprehensive Application supports Montana businesses with financing for growth, workforce development, and jobs to diversify the state’s economy.
Funder: Montana Department of Commerce
Due Dates: October 30, 2025 (Comprehensive application opened) | October 2026 (Anticipated annual application period) | Monday, end of day (For same-week Thursday review)
Funding Amounts: Up to $2 million for Commerce’s loan portion; 50% match required; maximum terms of 5–10 years
Summary: Participation loans support Montana business growth, good-paying jobs, workforce development, and economic diversification.
Key Information: This comprehensive application is only for projects with an ORE LPP Preliminary Project Application Approval Letter from Commerce.
The Montana Department of Commerce’s Opportunities in Rural Economies Loan Participation Program (ORE LPP) provides low-interest financing alongside a participating lender to accelerate business opportunities and diversify Montana’s economy. It supports existing Montana businesses and businesses expanding into the state, with goals of creating good-paying jobs, retaining or expanding businesses, encouraging workforce development, and promoting long-term economic growth.
The comprehensive application is the second phase of the loan process. After preliminary approval, the business, external partner organization (EPO), and participating lender prepare final, confirmed financing and project details for Commerce’s Commitment Letter. Eligible uses include short-term working capital, workforce activities, job creation, and interest-rate reductions, relocation expenses, or rental assistance for basic sector companies. Loan forgiveness may be considered separately for existing participation loans under extraordinary circumstances.