Opportunities in Rural Economies Program
The Montana Department of Commerce recently released the Opportunities in Rural Economies Program, a new initiative to foster economic growth, support business expansion and create high-paying jobs in rural communities across the state.
The ORE Program consists of both loan and grant components:
- The ORE Loan Participation Program offers low-interest participation loans in partnership with participating lenders and forgivable loans to accelerate business growth, encourage job creation and diversify Montana's economy.
- The ORE Grant Program offers matching grant funds to support planning projects that deliver significant economic benefits to rural communities.
Commerce expects to begin receiving applications for the $7.5 million in loans and $500,000 in grants mid-May. Detailed program information, eligibility requirements, and application materials are available on Commerce's website.