About this programme
The Entrepreneurial Development Loan Fund (EDLF) is a direct loan program run by Business Oregon for small Oregon businesses that can't get conventional bank financing, including businesses at least half owned by severely disabled individuals.
Rather than applying to Business Oregon directly, borrowers work through a Certified Entity, typically a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at a local community college, which handles counseling and helps put the application together.
How it works
EDLF loans carry a fixed interest rate of Prime plus 2%, minimum.
The amortization period generally cannot exceed the useful life of the assets being financed, as determined by the department, and cannot exceed 10 years.
A business can borrow up to $1,000,000 in aggregate loan proceeds over its lifetime under this fund.
There is no application or SBDC counseling fee, though third-party fees (such as for collateral evaluation) may apply.
Who can apply
A business qualifies if it meets at least one of: annual revenues of $1,500,000 or less in the preceding 12 months, 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, or at least 50% ownership by a severely disabled individual.
How to apply
- Contact a Certified Entity, typically the SBDC at a local community college.
- Work with a Business Finance Officer through that SBDC to prepare your application.
- Submit the completed EDLF Application through your SBDC counselor, along with the required supporting documents.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Completed EDLF Application
- Personal Financial Statement
- Demographic Questionnaire (available in multiple languages)
- Evidence of collateral and repayment capacity
Frequently asked
Do I apply to Business Oregon directly?
No. You work through a Certified Entity, typically your local community college's Small Business Development Center, and a Business Finance Officer there helps prepare and submit your application.
How much can I borrow?
Up to $1,000,000 in aggregate loan proceeds over the lifetime of the business.
What interest rate will I pay?
A fixed rate of Prime plus 2%, minimum.
Is there an application fee?
No application or SBDC counseling fee applies, though third-party fees may still come up.
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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.