USDA Launches Lender Lens for Enhanced Transparency in Rural Development

Washington, D.C., January 19, 2026 – In a significant move to promote transparency and accessibility, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden introduced the Lender Lens on the Rural Data Gateway. This innovative dashboard will offer broad visibility into Rural Development’s commercial guaranteed loan portfolio, benefiting both the public and key stakeholders in commercial lending.

A New Era of Data Visualization

Lender Lens is designed to provide communities with a comprehensive overview of federal investments, showcasing a suite of user-friendly data visualizations. These tools empower users to monitor performance, identify trends, and manage their Rural Development loan guarantee portfolios proactively. Key metrics featured on the dashboard include total loan volume, average loan size, loan distribution by sector, geographic spread, and delinquency rates, all available at a glance. Data will be refreshed monthly and can be downloaded down to the individual loan level, ensuring stakeholders have timely access to the insights they need.

Government Data Transparency

“The Trump Administration understands that the American public values the importance of government data transparency,” noted Deputy Secretary Vaden. “The Lender Lens will highlight USDA’s efforts to broaden access to capital for businesses and rural communities that require assistance. It will also demonstrate how Rural Development funds are being utilized throughout rural America, aiding in the expansion of healthcare access, job creation, and the provision of safe drinking water.”

A Comprehensive Resource

Developed in 2023, the Rural Data Gateway aims to enable USDA to strategically target resources to those who need them most in rural America. This platform has solidified USDA’s role as a vital partner for rural residents, entrepreneurs, government officials, and additional stakeholders. It systematically showcases how Rural Development investments have strengthened rural economies and enhanced access to capital. Initiatives include rehabilitating water and wastewater infrastructure and constructing essential public services.

Investment Dashboards for Rural Communities

The Rural Data Gateway features investment dashboards that highlight how Rural Development has fortified local economies over the past ten years through 80 diverse programs. These user-friendly tools are designed to emphasize crucial investments, helping rural residents navigate available resources efficiently. Users can easily analyze trends by state, county, and congressional district.

Commitment to Open Data Access

The Rural Data Gateway aligns with USDA’s mission to amplify public access to federal data, as mandated by the Open, Public, Electronic, and Necessary Government Data Act of 2018.

Learn More About USDA Rural Development

USDA Rural Development is dedicated to investing in rural America through loans, grants, and loan guarantee programs aimed at fostering rural prosperity. The resources and commitment provided help drive economic security and prosperity in rural communities. Our programs support essential services such as high-speed internet, electric, and transportation infrastructure, alongside business growth, healthcare, education, and housing. Discover more at www.rd.usda.gov.

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