### Question
How is the term participation agreement defined?


### Answer
The term **participation agreement** is defined in *7 U.S.C. § 2009cc* as the following:

> an agreement, between the Secretary and a rural business investment company granted final approval under section 2009cc–3(e) of this title, that requires the rural business investment company to make investments in smaller enterprises in rural areas

#### Citation:
  - *7 U.S.C. § 2009cc*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 50-AGRICULTURAL CREDIT > SUBCHAPTER VIII-RURAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT PROGRAM**

