Request for Participation: Lender Network for the Small Business Clean Air Program

The Authority invites qualified financial institutions to express interest in participating in the Small Business Clean Air Program (SBCAP) as a participating lender and bond purchaser, with the objective of creating a network of lending partners with a streamlined, standardized, and repeatable financing process that reduces legal and transaction costs, shortens closing timelines, and allows more Ohio small businesses with financing needs of generally $350,000 or less to benefit from affordable capital and incentives offered through OAQDA and state partners. Participation in the network does not obligate a lender to finance any transaction. Each lender retains full authority over its credit underwriting, loan approval, and lending decisions as it considers serving as a bond purchaser to OAQDA revenue bonds for qualified small business projects.
This solicitation will be posted on an ongoing basis through June 30, 2027, to accept proposals from qualified firms.While this solicitation is posted, the Authority will entertain requests for information. Any written questions and answers will be posted on the Authority’s website related to this solicitation: https://ohioairquality.ohio.gov/about/05-rfqsUpon receipt of a lender's expression of interest, OAQDA will review the information and may request an interview. All requesters will be notified in writing of next steps and/or decisions, with estimates within 30-60 days of receipt.Following review of responses, OAQDA intends to establish an SBCAP Participating Lender Network of financial institutions familiar with SBCAP and the standardized financing process, and that agree to the responsibilities described in this solicitation. Participation in the SBCAP Participating Lender Network does not constitute endorsement by OAQDA of any lender, nor does it obligate OAQDA to refer borrowers to a particular financial institution. Likewise, lenders retain complete discretion regarding all lending decisions.Interested financial institutions are invited to provide a brief response, including the following information, delivered to OAQDA via email at info@aqda.ohio.gov with “SBCAP Lender Network” in the subject line. Institution Name and Primary Representative Contact Information Geographic markets served in Ohio Experience with: Small business and commercial lending Conduit bond financings (if any) Previous OAQDA transactions (if any) Existing loan products (with typical interest rate and terms) and preferences on loan size and practices. Confirmation of willingness to become familiar with OAQDA SBCAP and financing process Confirmation of willingness to utilize the standardized bond documents and form bond counsel opinion. Description of lender, legal, documentation, or other transaction fees typically charged for financings of the targeted project and transaction size, including any opportunity for standardized or reduced-fee structures. Any recommendations that could further improve efficiency and reduce transaction costs for small business projects and borrowers.
Banking and investment