Sicangu Fund invites individuals and organizations to help us expand our available capital for our small business borrowers. Low interest loans-social investments from individuals and institutions allow us the use of their funds, so that we can, in turn, make loans to worthy small businesses in the community. Prospective lenders are advised, however, that Sicangu Fund is not an insured institution and there is no guarantee of repayment. We would welcome the opportunity to visit with interested lenders and answer any questions you might have about our policies and track record on payments to lenders. Lenders should also note that loans to Sicangu Fund are not tax deductible as a charitable gift. Below is a quick Q & A to help explain how you can make a loan. A downloadable loan application form is also available on this website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an “investment” or a “loan”?
It's a loan, for which Sicangu Fund issues a promissory note. You might also think of it as a social investment in the community.

Will I earn interest on my money?
Yes. Lenders choose their own simple annual interest rate. For loans of four years or longer, the rate is 0% to 4%. For loans shorter than four years, the rate is 0% to 3%. The lower the rate, the more helpful the loan is to us and to our borrowers, of course.

How can I be assured that I'll get my money back?
Sicangu Fund will maintain equity reserves, that is, permanent capital so that in the event that one of Sicangu Fund's borrowers doesn't repay his or her loan, your money is protected. Lenders are advised, however, that Sicangu Fund is not FDIC insured.

How much do I have to invest?
The minimum investment is $5,000. The minimum term is three years. Longer terms and larger amounts are most helpful for the types of loans we make to our borrowers.

Why don't Sicangu Fund borrowers just get bank loans like everybody else?
Most banks won't or can't make these loans because of complicated land ownership issues on Indian reservations across the country. Sicangu Fund not only loans money, but we provide the training and support that help people who otherwise can't get money from banks to be successful. After our borrowers have successfully repaid loans to Sicangu Fund, we expect many of them will be able to access traditional loan dollars from banks.