Lift Fund - Interest Buy Down Program

LiftFund Interest Buy Down Program

0% Interest Rate Loans for Lockhart Small Businesses

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.

Program Overview

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.

Who Is Eligible?

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 Details

  • 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%

Benefits to Small Businesses

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.

Program Goals & Community Impact

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

How to Apply

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

Program Status

Application details will be posted on this page once they become available.