Nevada Attorney General Proposed Business Loan Revamp
The state could increase support for small businesses through a dormant loan program.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Employment
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Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford has proposed revitalizing a state-run small-business loan program that has seen little activity in recent years. The initiative aims to increase awareness and capital access for local businesses following a period of dormancy for the fund.
Why it matters
The proposal addresses concerns that the program has stagnated, potentially limiting credit access for small businesses. By increasing investment and visibility, the state intends to support local entrepreneurs who may struggle to secure traditional financing.
The loan program was created with a $1 million appropriation in 2017 and distributed $600,000 to 16 businesses before becoming inactive in 2023. Currently, the fund holds under $250,000.
The players
Aaron Ford
The Nevada Attorney General who proposed reinvesting in the state small-business loan program.
Rural Nevada Development Corp.
The organization responsible for managing the state small-business loan program since 2025.
Joe Lombardo
The Governor of Nevada who received an endorsement from the National Federation of Independent Business.
The details
The state administration transferred oversight of the loan program to the Rural Nevada Development Corp. in 2025. This body currently manages the disbursement of low-interest loans to certified small businesses, though only two loans have been issued since 2025. The Attorney General argues that the program requires more robust promotion to reach eligible businesses across the state.
Timeline
2017: Senate Bill 126 created the loan program.
2023: The loan program went dormant.
2025: The state placed the program under the Rural Development Corp.
April 2026: Annual nonfarm employment in Nevada rose 1.9%.
September 15, 2026: The NFIB endorsed Gov. Joe Lombardo.
Money Landscape
The proposal to revive this fund follows the 2017 enactment of Senate Bill 126, which originally capitalized the program. This move comes as the state evaluates economic support tools amid shifting employment and business climate trends.
Small-business owners in Nevada should monitor for potential administrative changes that could make low-interest capital more accessible. You may wish to consult with a financial professional to determine if your business meets the criteria for state-backed loan programs.
The takeaway
The proposed reinvestment aims to jumpstart a stalled credit program for local entrepreneurs. Business owners should track future legislative updates regarding the loan program and prepare their documentation if they seek low-interest state support.
Further reading
For more on the state's job market and economic initiatives, see Employment.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Las Vegas Sun.
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