AgStart

The purpose of AgStart is to assist small farming and ranching operations in the early stages of development who market, or plan to market, their agricultural products directly to consumers or through local/regional food systems through low interest loans. This includes but is not limited to organic farming, local food farming and small farming operations.

The program is available for financing up to $25,000 per applicant. Repayment terms are up to ten years and funds can be used for any agricultural purpose as follows:

Operating loans: Available for day-to-day operating needs for crop production, harvest expenses, feed purchases, marketing and promotion, and any other ag-related expense.
Term loans: for capital purchases or improvements including equipment and herd expansion. (terms up to 7 years)
Real estate loans: for purchasing agricultural real estate for the purpose of producing an agricultural product. (terms up to 10 years)

Rates will be competitively priced to help local food farmers get started. The purpose of the AgStart program is to provide start-up capital and continued financing as well as to enable the beginning farmer to establish a positive business and credit history during the early stage of business development.

To apply, applicants must complete an AgStart loan application, business plan and provide minimal support documentation. For questions or to request an application, which includes all the details for applying, please email agstart@westernagcredit.com.