Financial Resources and Assistance for Farmers and Ranchers

Farmers and ranchers face increased challenges due to unique financial hurdles like unpredictable weather, market volatility and high operating costs. Access to resources and effective financial planning can help farmers navigate these difficulties. Such planning not only meets immediate needs but also fosters long-term sustainable practices. Additionally, various financial resources support farmers in managing cash flow and investing in advanced agricultural technology and livestock. These include grants and low-interest loans, which can revolutionize farm operations.

According to the latest report, U.S. farm households experienced varied income levels influenced by factors such as farm size and reliance on off-farm employment.

• In 2022, the average income for farm households was $95,418, surpassing the national household average of $74,580.
• Small family farms earning less than $350,000 in gross farm income represent 88% of U.S. farms.
• Large-scale farms earning $1,000,000 or more in annual gross cash farm income had a median household income of $505,833 in 2022, predominantly from farming activities.

Source: Economic Research Service

Overall, larger farms reported higher median incomes, with a significant portion also coming from non-farming employment. Meanwhile, most smaller-scale farms depend on income from non-farm sources, emphasizing the utility of resources and financial planning for these operations.

Grants, often called 'free money,' provide significant financial aid that does not require repayment. These funds can assist farmers in filling funding gaps, providing essential capital and fostering innovation. Grants come from various sources: government entities, private organizations, community initiatives and veteran-specific programs. Beyond small-business grants, farmers and ranchers can also utilize other forms of assistance, such as technical aid, educational programs and cooperative initiatives. Regularly check grant websites for updates, as application processes and cycles vary.

Federal grants primarily support research and development, encouraging technological progress in the sector. Here are some notable grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist and encourage farmers.

State Farm grants typically aim to strengthen local agriculture and encourage sustainable farming practices, contributing to regional development. Some notable examples include the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), theTexas Young Farmer Grant, the Pennsylvania Very Small Meat Processor Grant and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF).

Contact your local authorities or thestate's Department of Agriculture for further information about additional state grant opportunities. They can provide details about state-specific grants tailored to your farming operations and requirements. Also, explore resources from local colleges, universities, community organizations and agricultural networks. These entities also often offer support and assistance to the farming community.

Private and community farm grants can bridge funding gaps where government grants fall short. These grants often provide more flexibility, accommodating a wide range of projects from new product development to innovative marketing strategies.

The Farmer Veteran Coalition offers grants through its Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund. This yearly program supports veterans starting their farming or ranching careers. Unlike typical grants, this fund directly pays third-party vendors for essential items the veteran identifies to kickstart their farm business.

Grant amounts range from $1,000 to $5,000, covering costs for all-terrain vehicles (ATV), beekeeping equipment, breeding livestock, fencing, scholarship and tractor implements. To be eligible, applicants must be members of the Farmer Veteran Coalition (membership is free), have served in any branch of the U.S. Military and have an "Honorable" discharge characterization.

Farmers and ranchers have access to numerous agricultural loan programs to enhance their financial resources for operations. Notable options include the USDA's Farm Service Agency Loan Programs, Farm Storage Facility Loan Program and Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. Applying for these small-business loans can provide critical financial support for various agricultural needs.

The Farm Service Agency provides loans to assist farmers and ranchers in obtaining the necessary financing to start, grow or sustain a family farm. Key offerings include the USDA's Microloan Program, Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Loans, Emergency Farm Loans and Farm Ownership Loans. Each program offers different interest rates and terms for guaranteed loan maximum interest rates.

Use the Loan Assistance Tool to determine your eligibility for FSA Loans, explore various loan types, understand the loan requirements and follow straightforward instructions for completing application forms.

The Farm Storage Facility Loan Program provides financing to farmers for improving on-site commodity storage and handling capabilities, facilitating farmers in constructing or upgrading on-farm storage facilities. This low-interest financing aids in improving cash flow and reducing post-harvest losses. The program offers significant benefits, enabling farmers to control their production, optimize market timing and reduce transportation costs.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers an essential loan program for farmers and ranchers to provide access to capital for growth and sustainability. Key benefits of SBA Loans include competitive interest rates to manage borrowing costs and extended repayment terms to ease monthly financial burdens. To be eligible for these loans, applicants must have a robust business plan, a good credit history and demonstrate the ability to repay the loan. Interested farmers and ranchers should visit the SBA's website for detailed application instructions and comprehensive loan information.

Aggie Bonds represent a federal-state partnership that enables private lenders to offer tax-exempt interest on loans to beginning farmers. This arrangement allows for loans at below-market interest rates, effectively passing savings onto farmers. Local lenders issuing Aggie Bonds typically offer rates one to three percent lower than standard commercial farm loan rates. Note that the liability for these bonds rests solely with the private lender, with no state agency or federal government liability.

Aggie Bonds' eligibility criteria were revised in 1996. Now, applicants can own up to 30 percent of their county's median-size farm or ranch, with a total value not exceeding $125,000. The 1996 amendments also permit beginning farmers to purchase property from relatives. State agriculture departments or similar authorities usually administer Aggie Bond programs. For additional information, visit the National Council of State Agricultural Finance Programs website and explore the "Types of State Ag Loan Programs" section for details.

Farmers and ranchers often face challenges such as weather unpredictability, including floods, droughts or extreme temperature changes, which impact crops and livestock. Inflation and fluctuating market prices further strain cash flow. Implementing effective financial planning and cost-control strategies, such as regular review of operating costs, efficient use of farm supplies and crop diversification, can help protect against economic fluctuations, manage spending and reduce uncertainties in farming and ranching.

For further resources on agricultural practices, tools and information related to farming operations and agricultural professionals, consider exploring the following:

• AgPlan: A free online tool that assists producers in developing personalized business plans equipped with industry-specific templates.
• Beginning Farmers: This is a platform that supports new farmers with extensive resources, including guides, tools and training opportunities.
• Farm Aid: Delivers various resources, including the Farmer Resource Network, which connects farmers to essential services and organizations.
• Farmers.gov: The USDA's comprehensive resource for agricultural information, offering guidance on managing farm loans, grants and other agricultural services.
• National Council of State Agricultural Finance Programs: This is a key resource for information on state-level agricultural finance programs and opportunities.
• National Farmers Union: Provides support and education for farmers, including specialized programs like the Women's Conference and the Beginning Farmers Institute.
• Rural Advancement Foundation International-USA: Offers diverse programs ranging from crop insurance reform to support for transitioning to sustainable agriculture.
• The Farm Credit System: This is a government-sponsored entity specializing in providing rural and agricultural loans.
• U.S. Department of Agriculture: Offers extensive resources and information on various aspects of agriculture in the U.S.
• U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Library: A primary source for agricultural information, providing access to a wealth of resources related to agriculture and food science.
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Information Center: A key resource for rural information, offering a wealth of data and services related to rural and agricultural issues.