(CEDA) — The Commonwealth Economic Development Authority is pleased to announce the approval of up to $57 million from the U.S. Treasury under the State Small Business Credit Initiative or SSBCI 2.0 for the CNMI. The funding will support loan guarantees, loan participation, and collateral support programs.
As a bank-driven program, CEDA will not be distributing direct loans but will collaborate with participating banks.
“While we are in the process of contacting FDIC banks to gauge their interest in participating, their involvement is not yet confirmed. However, we remain optimistic about their participation, given the success of the previous SSBCI 1.0 program,” CEDA said.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang assigned CEDA the responsibility of applying for and managing the SSBCI 2.0 program, a bank-driven initiative funded with a $57 million allocation for the CNMI, disbursed in three tranches. The first tranche will be nearly $19 million, and 80% of this must be disbursed before requesting the second tranche.
Initially, the CNMI Department of Commerce submitted the SSBCI 2.0 application under the previous administration (CY 2021-2022). However, complications from other U.S. Treasury ARPA funded programs (CY 2022-2023) led to a pause in the U.S. Treasury review. Consequently, the Palacios-Apatang administration tasked CEDA to substantially modify and re-submit the application in the latter part of 2023.
In early 2024, CEDA asserted to the U.S. Treasury its financial and administrative autonomy and highlighted its strong audit track record with the implementation of the previously authorized SSBCI 1.0.
After follow-up communication, and inclusion of additional layers of compliance and monitoring measures, the U.S. Treasury granted final approval on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.
“This approval is a significant step forward for our small local businesses,” said CEDA Chairman Frank M. Rabauliman.
“We are dedicated to using these funds to stimulate economic growth and support the entrepreneurial spirit in our community.” said Development Corporation Division Chairman Frank Lee Borja.
The loan participation program will provide up to 60% of the principal loan amount, while the collateral support program will offer certificates of deposit covering up to 50% of the principal loan amount. These programs are designed to provide crucial financial assistance to CNMI businesses.
The SSBCI 2.0 requires commencement of access to the program within a 90-day period, by Oct. 16, 2024. Updates will be provided as they become available.
For more information, contact the CEDA Loan Team at (670) 234-6245 ext. 305/309/307. You may also email:
Fred Cruz: f.cruz@developcnmi.com
Abby Atalig: a.atalig@developcnmi.com
Marie Coleman: m.coleman@developcnmi.com
