The City of McAllen and nonprofit small business lender LiftFund are aiming to help small business owners seeking to grow or begin a new business by offering interest-free funding.

The program offers zero percent interest loans to small business owners who do not have access to acquire loans through more traditional sources. Loan amounts will vary based on the size and need of the business. Businesses may use the funds for working capital, payroll, equipment, inventory and other business-related purposes.

“The City of McAllen and LiftFund have a long-standing partnership in support of the small business community,” said McAllen City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez. “Our Zero Percent Loan program is a great opportunity to support small businesses with access to funding during these tumultuous times.”

The City of McAllen and LiftFund launched the zero percent loan program partnership in 2014 with a $290,000 award. Since then, the partnership has funded 128 loans totaling more than $3.7 million in capital for an estimated local investment of $52 million. Figures are based on LiftFund’s funding to impact assessment, which states that for every $1 lent, the businesses generate $14 in economic activity.

“We’re so pleased to continue our partnership with the City of McAllen to support the city’s small business community,” said LiftFund’s Market Director Marlene Rodriguez. “We’ve enjoyed a great relationship with the city since opening our office here in 1998, and today we remain committed to helping the community launch new businesses and grow existing ones.”

Business owners can begin the application process online.

The Zero Percent Interest Loan Program is available to eligible applicants in the City of McAllen. The program continues until the funding is exhausted and is subject to LiftFund’s underwriting guidelines and availability of funds. Other fees may apply.