Delegation members said Arkansas recipients have been awarded $236,000 in Rural Business Enterprise Grants and $3.15 million in loan guarantees. According to the USDA, such grants are awarded to public agencies and private non-profit corporations “for financing and facilitating development of small and emerging private business enterprises.” The loan program aims to “help create jobs and stimulate rural economies by providing financial backing for rural businesses.”

Ashley County

• The City of Crossett will receive $28,800 for the renovation of a library for use as a small business location.

St. Francis 

• The East Arkansas Enterprise Community, located in Forrest City, will receive $58,000 for facility renovation.

Clark County 

• Southern Financial Partners, of Arkadelphia, will be awarded $150,000 for its revolving loan fund, which provides small business loans to people who have no credit history or access to commercial bank loans.

Sevier County

• The DeQueen Medical Center will receive $3.15 million as a Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan to purchase an existing hospital.

“Small businesses are vital to the economies of both our state and our nation, which is why I have fought to keep these programs alive and adequately funded. I am truly gratified to see emerging Arkansas enterprises given a real shot at success, and I look forward to seeing the positive results,” Pryor said.

"While government can’t take the place of the private sector in providing economic opportunity, we should do everything possible to give our small businesses access to government programs to help them expand and create jobs," Lincoln said. "Growing our small businesses is one of the best ways to build and strengthen our communities, and I'm pleased that these four counties will receive this assistance so our local entrepreneurs and business owners can continue to drive our economy forward."  
 
"The best strategy this country has for job growth is to continue investing in our small business community," said Berry. "Our state has many promising opportunities for development and I am pleased to see these funds helping programs committed to building successful enterprises."

"The Rural Business Enterprise Grant and Loan Guarantees program provides a tremendous economic stimulus to rural communities," said Ross.  "Small businesses are the backbone of rural communities, and these grants will go a long way toward creating new jobs and expanding economic opportunities throughout Arkansas."