USDA Guaranteed Loans
USDA business and industry loans offer greater flexibility and affordability.
Ameris Bank offers United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) business and industry (B&I) loans*. USDA B&I loans are designed specifically for rural businesses, municipalities, nonprofits, and other organizations. These loans are attractive because they have high borrowing amounts, low-interest rates, low annual percentage rates (APRs), and longer repayment terms.
About USDA business and industry loans.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a federal agency responsible for promoting agricultural production, protecting natural resources, and ensuring that all Americans have access to safe and nutritious food. The USDA also supports small business owners in rural and underserved areas by giving them access to the capital they need to grow and expand their operations.
USDA business and industry loans are government-backed loans made available to small businesses located in areas with a population of 50,000 or fewer residents. The USDA B&I loan program provides loan guarantees to approved banks, credit unions, and other lenders. This reduces the lenders' risk of extending loans and enables them to provide loans and financing solutions with favorable rates and repayment terms.
Ameris Bank has dedicated, knowledgeable business development managers who structure and deliver custom-tailored USDA business and industry loans. They are fully versed in USDA lending and help you understand the various loan and financing options and their benefits so you can decide what's best for your business.
USDA B&I loans
Loan Amounts
- Up to $25 million
Maximum Repayment Terms
- 7 years for working capital
- 15 years for machinery and capital equipment
- 30 years for real estate acquisition
Rate Information
- Variable and fixed interest rates are available, or a combination of fixed and variable
- Variable rates cannot be adjusted more frequently than quarterly
Eligible Uses
- Business acquisitions, construction, conversion, expansion, repair, modernization, and development
- Purchase of equipment, machinery, and supplies
- Business startup costs and working capital
- Projects supported by New Markets Tax Credits
- Debt refinancing under certain conditions
Collateral requirements
- All loan products require collateral
- Hazard insurance is required on collateral (equal to the loan amount or depreciated value, whichever is less)
How the process works, from application to funding.
Applying for a USDA B&I loan is an involved process that requires quite a bit of paperwork. Your Ameris Bank business development manager will explain what is needed to complete your application and be available if you need assistance. In addition, Ameris Bank, working closely with you and the USDA, will underwrite the loan and keep you updated on the loan's status.
If your USDA loan application is approved and you make the decision to move forward, we will ensure all the necessary documentation is finalized, and your funds will be disbursed. You will then make loan payments based on the schedule outlined in your USDA loan agreement. Your payment will depend on the loan type, length, and interest rate applicable when the application is approved and the necessary documentation is complete.
* All loans subject to credit approval.
Ameris Bank is a full-service financial institution serving customers in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, with locations in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.