Farm Service Agency Microloans

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) developed the Microloan (ML) program to better serve the unique financial operating needs of beginning, niche and the smallest of family farm operations by modifying its Operating Loan (OL) application, eligibility and security requirements. The program will offer more flexible access to credit and will serve as an attractive loan alternative for smaller farming operations like specialty crop producers and operators of community supported agriculture (CSA). These smaller farms, including non-traditional farm operations, often face limited financing options.

Use of Microloans

Microloans can be used for all approved operating expenses as authorized by the FSA Operating Loan Program, including but not limited to:

•           Initial start-up expenses;

•           Annual expenses such as seed, fertilizer, utilities, land rents;

•           Marketing and distribution expenses;

•           Family living expenses;

•           Purchase of livestock, equipment, and other materials essential to farm operations;

•           Minor farm improvements such as wells and coolers.

•           Hoop houses to extend the growing season;

•           Essential tools;

•           Irrigation;

•           Delivery vehicles.

For more information contact your local FSA Office.