DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program: eligibility, deadline, and how to apply (2026)
Key Facts
- Agency
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- Loan amount
- Not published by the agency
- Deadline
- Rolling (Open Continuously)
- Time Remaining
- Open year-round. Contact the program office named on the program page.
- CFDA Number
- 81.141
The DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program is a federal loan program administered by the Department of Energy (DOE). This guide covers everything you need to know to determine whether you qualify and how to apply at any time while the program remains open.
Use our free Grant Finder to discover additional programs you may be eligible for based on your organization type and location.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for the DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Details from the statute (25 U.S.C. 3502(c)): the Secretary of Energy may provide loan guarantees for the unpaid principal and interest due on any loan made to an Indian tribe or a tribal energy development organization for energy development. A loan guaranteed under this subsection shall be made by a financial institution subject to examination by the Secretary of Energy, an Indian tribe from its own funds, or a tribal energy development organization from its own funds. For an activity to provide, or expand the provision of, electricity on Indian land, the Secretary shall encourage cooperative arrangements between Indian tribes and utilities that provide service to Indian tribes.
Eligibility requirements can change between funding cycles. Always verify the current criteria on the official program page before beginning your application.
Not sure your organization qualifies? Run the free Grant Finder check → or compare other Energy programs by who can apply.
How to apply: step by step
- This is a loan, not a grant. It is repaid with interest. The agency lends directly or guarantees a loan for large projects.
- Read the program guidance on the official program page: eligible project types, the application stages and any fees.
- Contact the program office before applying. Most applicants start with a pre-application consultation.
Loan details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program name | DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program |
| Funding Agency | Department of Energy (DOE) |
| CFDA Number | 81.141 |
| Minimum loan | Not published |
| Maximum loan | Not published |
| Deadline | Rolling (Open Continuously) |
| Category | Energy |
| Matching Required | Not applicable: this is a loan, repaid with interest |
| Application Link | Official program page |
Loan limits and fees change with program rules. The lender or agency sets your final amount, rate and term within them. For the latest figures, check the official program page.
If you are exploring business financing beyond grants, the team at CeoCult covers loans, lines of credit, and alternative funding for founders.
Check your fit for Energy funding like this before you apply: eligibility and registration in one worksheet.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program?
Details from the statute (25 U.S.C. 3502(c)): the Secretary of Energy may provide loan guarantees for the unpaid principal and interest due on any loan made to an Indian tribe or a tribal energy development organization for energy development. A loan guaranteed under this subsection shall be made by a financial institution subject to examination by the Secretary of Energy, an Indian tribe from its own funds, or a tribal energy development organization from its own funds. For an activity to provide, or expand the provision of, electricity on Indian land, the Secretary shall encourage cooperative arrangements between Indian tribes and utilities that provide service to Indian tribes. Requirements can change between cycles, so always verify on the official program page before applying.
What is the deadline for DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program?
The current deadline is rolling (open continuously). Many federal grants operate on annual or rolling cycles. If this deadline has passed, check the program page for the next funding opportunity.
Does DOE Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program require matching funds?
Not applicable: this is a loan, repaid with interest. Matching requirements can vary by fiscal year and applicant type, so confirm with the funding agency before committing resources.