About this programme
The Micro Lending Program is one of Louisiana Economic Development's (LED/LEDC) SSBCI-backed capital programs. It runs a revolving loan fund that channels capital to very small Louisiana businesses through a network of approved community lenders, rather than lending directly from the state.
How it works
Loans range from $1,000 to $100,000. Proceeds can go toward start-up costs, working capital, equipment, inventory, or business property improvements, but not passive real estate investment.
You apply through one of five approved lenders, each covering a different territory: Carter Credit Union (statewide), Essential Credit Union (East Baton Rouge area), JEDCO (Jefferson Parish), NewCorp, Inc. (New Orleans MSA/statewide), and TruFund (statewide).
The lender underwrites the loan, then LED reviews the full package for committee approval before the loan closes.
Who can apply
The business must be authorized to conduct business in Louisiana and maintain an office in the state.
It must have 100 or fewer employees.
Excluded: restaurants or food operations under 2 years old, bars, gaming operations, pyramid schemes, financial services businesses, speculative real estate ventures, marijuana-related businesses, and refinancing.
How to apply
- Contact one of the approved lenders for your area: Carter Credit Union, Essential Credit Union, JEDCO, NewCorp Inc., or TruFund.
- Submit the lender's loan application.
- The lender completes underwriting.
- LED reviews the complete package for committee approval before the loan closes.
Frequently asked
How much can I borrow?
Between $1,000 and $100,000.
Do I apply to the state directly?
No. You apply through one of five approved lenders (Carter Credit Union, Essential Credit Union, JEDCO, NewCorp Inc., or TruFund), who underwrite the loan before LED reviews it for committee approval.
What can the loan be used for?
Start-up costs, working capital, equipment, inventory, or business property improvements. Passive real estate investment is not eligible.
Is my business excluded?
Restaurants under 2 years old, bars, gaming operations, pyramid schemes, financial services businesses, speculative real estate ventures, and marijuana-related businesses are all excluded, as is refinancing.
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All 10 programmes in Louisiana →
Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.