The NTRPDC loan program supports entrepreneurial and small business endeavors that form the backbone of our local economy. We can offer small businesses in our five-county region low-interest loans from our own revolving loan funds as well as assist them to access regional, state and federal loan programs. NTRPDC loan programs provide term, fixed-rate financing at interest rates lower than conventional financing. The loan programs are not intended to replace convention financing but rather are intended to fill a gap beyond the amount of private lender participation and owner equity investment. NTRPDC works with local commercial banks and owner investment to further the vitality of the Northern Tier business community. Since inception, our loan programs have distributed over $31 million and leveraged over $128 million.