Life Out In The Country

building a self sufficient life

By 1 Comment

Financing for Small Farms

Financing your small farm can be one of your biggest challenges as a producer.  With the right research you can find many resources online to help.

 

Grants

A grant is money that doesn’t have to be repaid.  Many states have grant programs.  Depending what state or locality your in you need to research your local option.  Don’t just look for farm only funding opportunities.  Remember that farming is a business as much as a lifestyle.  Grants are available not just for production but for conservation, energy saving, marketing, etc.

Farm Credit

The Farm Credit System is a unique cooperative that’s sole purpose is to provide loans for farms and rural properties.  Throughout the country you can find banks associate with the farm credit system in your area.  They offer loans for small and large farms and for producers who are just starting out or farmers who are more established.

Farm Service Agency

FSA is part of the United States Department of Agriculture.  FSA administers much of the financial aspect of USDA.  They offer loans for many types of operations.  They are some of the best places to start with for new or young farmers just starting out.

Existing Farmers

Many young farmers just starting out generally overlook older farmers.  The number of older farmers far outpaces that of younger producers.  Many of these older farmers have no one set to take the reins when they retire.  This presents an opportunity for some one just starting out.  Even if they cant pass over their business they can serve as mentors to the younger generation.

Start a Sideline

Without sufficient financial resources it can be hard to build your business.  By starting a sideline in conjunction to your farm operation you can earn more money.  Sidelines that work well depends on what kind of farming business you have.  Livestock and poultry production are year round but typically wont take all day everyday to work.  Crop production or fruit and vegetable production are more seasonal which gives you time in the off season.

 

Financing a farming operation is no small task. With planning and hard work you can still build your business.

Trackbacks

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Poultry Production in the United States

Modern agriculture is leaps and bounds different than it was 50 year ago.  Poultry production in the United States and around the world has changed dramatically to keep up with rising demand for protein.  Poultry is extremely efficient in converting feed into meat protein. Large scale poultry production got it’s start on the Delmarva Peninsula […]

Marketing for Small Farms

Farm marketing is perhaps the most important business decision you can make.  You can grown the largest crop, or raise the tastiest steak.  If you can’t sell what you produce, you’ve produced it for nothing.  If you can’t sell it for a profit then what you have in effect, is a very expensive hobby.   […]

Farm and Ranch Informational Wall Decorations for any Farm Home

Freshwater fish of the Midwest Wall Sign   Deer hunting knowledge   Live like Someone left the Gate Open Sign   Parts of a Horse   Donkey Knowledge Tin Sign   Goose Knowledge Wall Decor   Farmall Tractor Hay Field Wall Poster   Horse Care Knowledge Poster   Angus Beef Cut Chart Wall Sign   […]

Moving From the City to the Country

Moving from the city to the country?  Things you need to consider.  Whats different? What’s Not? Moving from the city can be a culture shock.  You may think country folks are a little backwards.  Truth is, they probably think the same about You.  Before you make the jump there are some things you need to […]