Water & Environmental Financing
Committed to the future of rural communities!
Safe drinking water and sanitary waste disposal systems are vital.
Vital to public health, but also, to the economic vitality of rural America.
Our team of experts thrive on connecting rural businesses with optimal solutions for continued growth and success and improving the quality of life for rural Americans.
The financing options we have available through the USDA Water and Environmental Financing (WEP) program can help you preserve and enhance the environmental and economic opportunities in the community you love. Water & Environmental Programs provides funding for the construction of water and waste facilities in rural communities with populations of 10,000 or less – except for the Loan Guarantee Program, which has a 50,000 limit.
The program provides for funding of clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to businesses in eligible rural areas.
We share your passion to help improve the quality of life for rural communities and we have the expertise to help you navigate the USDA financing process.
Take advantage of the USDA WEP program.
- Long-term, low-interest loans
- If funds are available, a grant may be combined with a loan if necessary, to keep user costs reasonable
- Up to a 40-year payback period, based on the useful life of the facilities financed
- Fixed interest rates, based on the need for the project and the median household income of the area to be served
- Make it easier for businesses in rural communities to access financing
- Assist a business in providing stability, growth, expansion, and rural employment
- Most types of businesses qualify
- Competitive interest rates and terms
Who may apply?
- Most state and local governmental entities
- Private nonprofits
- Federally recognized Tribes
From start to finish, we’re here for you!
You’ll have the support of a nationwide lender with an experienced underwriting and closing team. We’re ready to guide you through each transaction.
- Deal Dynamics & Structuring
- Due Diligence Process
- Industry Insights
Use of Proceeds
Finances acquisition, construction and improvement of:
- Drinking water sourcing, treatment, storage and distribution
- Sewer collection, transmission, treatment and disposal
- Solid waste collection, disposal and closure
- Storm water collection, transmission and disposal
In some cases, funding may also be available for related activities such as:
- Legal and engineering fees.
- Land acquisition, water and land rights, permits and equipment
- Start-up operations and maintenance
- Interest incurred during construction
- Purchase of facilities to improve service or prevent loss of service
- Other costs determined to be necessary for completion of the project
Plus, with First Bank of the Lake you'll enjoy:
- Expert support and advice
- Quick Response
- Flexible Options
- Experienced Underwriters
USDA Loans
A great tool for rural businesses!
Thriving businesses are important-and not just in big cities. Rural businesses are the lifeblood of our small towns and play a key role across the country.
Talk to us about your business and where you want to go. We can help you get there. Find out what it’s like to work with a bank who puts you first.
All loans are subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations may apply. First Bank of the Lake does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. All decisions concerning these matters should be made in conjunction with your professional advisors.
