Funding Main Street in Rural America

Over-regulation, following the 2008 financial crisis, makes it harder for small banks to serve their communities

The town of Jim Thorpe in Pennsylvania in this file photo. Access to capital for Main Street businesses is a challenge due to existing regulatory overhang, say experts. SAMIRA BOUAOU/THE EPOCH TIMES

WASHINGTON—Entrepreneurs in small towns and rural communities throughout the United States face a hard time having access to cash. Despite economic recovery and an improved lending environment, challenges persist, according to lawmakers from both sides of the aisle.

“Access to affordable credit for small and main street businesses remains a persistent challenge,” Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) said during a small business event at the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) on Jan. 30.