# USDA Rural Development Funds West Virginia Business Loans

The USDA Rural Development announced a total of **$34.2 million** in guaranteed loans awarded on September 18, 2026, to support business development projects across West Virginia. These loans target real estate development, job creation, and operational capacity enhancement in key sectors such as entertainment and hospitality. Notable recipients include Icon Cinema Huntington, LLC receiving **$3.4 million** for a multiscreen cinema renovation in Huntington; Clearwater Investment Holdings, LLC awarded **$25 million** to refinance resort operations in Milton; and Branch Berkeley Springs, LLC granted **$5.8 million** to develop a micro-resort in Morgan County. These investments are expected to create or retain over 40 jobs, strengthening local economies and tourism infrastructure.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the USDA Rural Development’s focus on leveraging guaranteed loans to stimulate regional economic growth through targeted business projects in West Virginia.
- The involvement of local lenders such as Community Trust Bank and First Bank of the Lake highlights opportunities for financial institutions to partner in federally backed loan programs.
- Contractors and service providers in construction, hospitality, and entertainment sectors may find emerging opportunities linked to these funded projects.
- Organizations should consider engaging with USDA Rural Development contacts, including Business Programs Director Jesse Gandee, for insights on future loan programs and eligibility criteria.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA Rural Development)

### Vendors
- Icon Cinema Huntington, LLC (loan recipient)
- Clearwater Investment Holdings, LLC (loan recipient)
- Branch Berkeley Springs, LLC (loan recipient)
- Community Trust Bank (lender)
- First Bank of the Lake (lender)

### Key Quotes
> These investments energize West Virginia’s economy by capitalizing on tourism opportunities, strengthening local capacity and supporting family environments.
> — John Reisenweber, West Virginia State Director, USDA Rural Development

### Sources
- [USDA Rural Development Announces $34.2 Million in Guaranteed Loans to Benefit Business Development throughout West Virginia | Rural Development](https://www.rd.usda.gov/newsroom/news-release/usda-rural-development-announces-342-million-guaranteed-loans-benefit-business-development) - USDA