About this programme
The Oregon Capital Access Program (CAP) is run by Business Oregon to get more commercial loans approved for small businesses, including startups and expansions. It doesn't lend money directly to a business; instead it works through banks and credit unions that have enrolled in the program.
CAP is built around a loan-loss reserve. Every time a participating lender enrolls a loan under CAP, both the lender and Business Oregon contribute to a reserve account that cushions the lender against losses, which makes the lender more willing to approve loans it might otherwise turn down.
How it works
When a lender enrolls a loan, it builds a loan-loss reserve for that loan. Business Oregon matches the lender's contribution to that reserve.
The lender's own enrollment fee (paid into the reserve) ranges between 3% and 7% of the loan, set by the financial institution.
Business Oregon's matching contribution to the reserve is capped at up to $35,000 per borrower.
The lender sets the interest rate and repayment terms on the underlying loan itself; CAP only affects the reserve behind it.
All types of loans and lines of credit are eligible, for both nonprofit and for-profit businesses, except CAP funds cannot go toward residential housing purchase or improvement, non-business real property, or refinancing an existing loan that wasn't already enrolled in CAP.
Who can apply
Any for-profit or nonprofit business obtaining a commercial loan or line of credit from a CAP-enrolled Oregon lender can use the program; there's no separate CAP application for the borrower.
Eleven financial institutions currently participate, including Bank of the Pacific, Citizens Bank, Columbia Bank, and First Interstate Bank, among others.
How to apply
- Apply for a commercial loan or line of credit directly with one of the CAP-enrolled Oregon lenders.
- Fillable loan application forms and borrower representation documents are available on the CAP program webpage if your lender needs them.
Frequently asked
Does Business Oregon lend me the money directly under CAP?
No. CAP works through enrolled banks and credit unions; Business Oregon matches the lender's contribution to a loan-loss reserve, which makes the lender more willing to approve your loan.
How much does Business Oregon contribute?
The state's matching contribution to the loan-loss reserve is capped at up to $35,000 per borrower.
What can't I use a CAP-backed loan for?
CAP funds cannot be used for residential housing purchase or improvement, non-business real property, or to refinance a loan that wasn't already enrolled in CAP.
Who sets my interest rate and repayment terms?
Your lender does. CAP only affects the loan-loss reserve behind the loan, not the rate or terms the lender offers you.
More funding in Oregon
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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.