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Part 4: From Vision to Reality: 4 Rural Businesses Transformed by USDA B&I Loans

The USDA Business & Industry (B&I) Guaranteed Loan Program doesn’t just provide capital—it empowers rural businesses to scale, innovate, and create local impact. With over 130 USDA B&I–backed projects in Oklahoma since 2015, and more than $665 million in loan guarantees, the program is reshaping rural economic landscapes across the state and the nation. Here […]

Part 3: Mapping Success: Why Oklahoma Is a Top 5 State for USDA B&I Lending

Why Oklahoma Is a Top 5 State for USDA B&I Lending

When it comes to strategic rural lending, Oklahoma stands tall. Over the past decade, the state has consistently ranked among the top performers in the nation for USDA Business & Industry (B&I) Guaranteed Loan activity. Between 2015 and 2024, Oklahoma secured more than $665 million in B&I loan guarantees—supporting more than 130 projects across dozens […]

Part 2: Small Investments, Big Returns: How USDA B&I Loans Boost State Tax Revenue

In the world of economic development, there’s often a trade-off between public spending and tangible results. But what if we told you there’s a federal program that not only strengthens rural communities and drives job growth—but also grows state tax revenues in a measurable, lasting way? That’s exactly what the USDA Business & Industry (B&I) […]

Part 1: How the USDA B&I Program Created 750,000 Jobs in Rural America

The group of happy-workers greeting USDA & BI controller

Over the course of a decade, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Business and Industry (B&I) Guaranteed Loan Program has transformed rural communities by unlocking capital, stimulating growth, and—most notably—creating or saving an estimated 750,000 jobs between 2012 and 2022. According to a 2025 economic assessment by Summit LLC, this cornerstone program not only brings private […]

How USDA B&I Loans Are Building Jobs, Revenue, and Resilience in Rural America

A 2025 Economic Assessment  prepared by Summit LLC reveals that the B&I program is more than just a source of financing—it’s a catalyst for job creation, business expansion, tax revenue growth, and rural revitalization. View Summary of Findings: USDA B&I Guaranteed Loan Program: 2025 Economic Assessment View the Complete B&I Economic Assessment from Summit We’re […]

SBA 504 vs. SBA 7(a) Loans: Understanding Key Differences for Small Businesses

SBA 504 vs. SBA 7(a) Loans

At First National Bank of Oklahoma, we understand that securing the right financing is crucial to the growth of your business. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers two key loan programs that can help fund your business’s expansion: the SBA 504 loan and the SBA 7(a) loan. Each loan program serves a different purpose, and […]

Financial FAQ’s – From First National Bank of Oklahoma

Financial FAQ’s – From First National Bank of Oklahoma

In the evolving world of finance, understanding the ins and outs of banking is more crucial than ever. Being well-informed about banking processes can make a significant difference in your financial health and sense of control regarding your finances. Being knowledgeable about account opening procedures, loan requirements, or planning for retirement gives you a heavy […]