Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Rural Debt Obligations

Last of four posts on Mission Related Investments (MRIs).

The two previous posts discussed equity MRIs. This post discusses debt MRIs.

CoBank recently developed a program for debt MRIs that it is calling Rural Debt Obligations (RDOs). CoBank has made this program available to its affiliated associations, and Yankee's board recently approved participating in this program.

While an RDO is a debt instrument, it is not a loan. It is more like a bond. RDOs can be issued for purposes that support farmers, agribusinesses and their rural communities. Examples include:

  • rural or agricultural infrastructure
  • essential rural facilities or equipment
  • renewable energy projects
  • value-added businesses
RDOs will be non-patronage.

If you have an investment that you think may qualify for an RDO, please contact Bill Heath.