The City of Lockhart, in partnership with LiftFund, is offering a 0% interest rate loan opportunity to help small businesses access affordable capital, improve cash flow, and grow sustainably.
Through an interest buy down, this program reduces the cost of borrowing on qualifying LiftFund loans, making financing more accessible for local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Rising interest rates can make it difficult for small businesses to access capital. The LiftFund Interest Buy Down Program addresses this challenge by subsidizing interest costs on approved loans.
Through this program:
Businesses receive lower monthly payments
Cash flow is improved
Long-term borrowing costs are significantly reduced
For every $1 invested by the City of Lockhart, LiftFund can provide $4 in lending capital, multiplying the impact on the local economy.
To qualify, businesses must meet the following criteria:
Located within the Lockhart city limits
(or intending to locate in Lockhart with a lease)
Startup or existing business (open at least 6 months)
In good standing with creditors
Able to demonstrate capacity to repay the loan
Business existence verified through LiftFund’s standard process
Loan amounts: Up to $15,000
Interest rate:
Maximum standard rate: 14.5%
Reduced to 0% through the interest buy down (while funds last)
Program fund: $50,000 total interest buy down fund
Loan terms: Based on loan size
Commitment fee: Up to 5%
Participating businesses may experience:
Lower monthly loan payments
Increased eligibility for future traditional financing
Improved credit scores
Increased revenue
Jobs created or retained
LiftFund reports a 96% repayment rate and estimates a $14 community impact for every $1 lent, making this program a strong investment in Lockhart’s local economy.
This one-year program aims to:
Serve at least 10 Lockhart small businesses
Deploy $200,000 in total lending capital
Create or retain 15 jobs
Strengthen the long-term economic health of Lockhart
Eligible businesses will apply directly through LiftFund, where loans are evaluated using LiftFund’s standard credit and underwriting process. Approved borrowers will receive the interest rate reduction through the City of Lockhart’s Interest Buy Down Program.
Program Start Date: October 1, 2025
Program Duration: Until funds are fully depleted
Application details will be posted on this page once they become available.