Financing

Farms and ranches are businesses, and at some point, most farm businesses require more cash than the farm operator has on hand. Farmers may need financing to access land; to purchase equipment, seeds, and other materials; or to expand their farming operation.

The topic of financing is intimately connected to setting goals for a farm enterprise, writing a business plan, keeping records, and establishing access to land, and therefore must be considered alongside these other topics.

There are traditional lending options available to farmers, as well as a variety of other financing possibilities including grants, USDA programs, and other lending programs. This section includes practical ATTRA resources that will help you understand and access financing options. 

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Terrapin Farm Tractor
Marty Holman works the computer in his outdoor office on Holman’s Harvest Farms in Loxahatchee Groves, Florida, February 25, 2021. Holman raises chickens, cattle, vegetable, and tropical fruit on his 15 acres. USDA/FPAC photo by Preston KeresUSDA