Service Agency (FSA) programs, allows us to better understand the business cycles and details of each operation as we provide specialized loans for young, beginning or small farmers.
An exciting part of CultivateGrowth is a new emerging farmer loan program, specifically designed for beginning farmers, since many may have low or no credit, or don’t have a lot of collateral. This financing program has even more flexible standards, allowing GreenStone to provide the financial support to customers who may not have previously been able to qualify. That means more aspiring farmers will be able to obtain the financing for their dreams.
Education
Knowing agriculture is a rapidly changing, and challenging, industry, GreenStone has prioritized its support by providing our customers with learning opportunities and resources. Yet, no two farms, nor farmers, are the same. Which is why we’ve developed diverse educational program opportunities that offer a customized approach to each member’s needs.
Beyond the opportunities, those members in the emerging farmer loan program also have the opportunity to earn a reduced interest rate after completing a slate of educational activities.
All emerging loan customers can take advantage of:
- Financial training
- Educational conferences
- Instructor-led workshops
- Industry consultation
- Tax and accounting services
- Mentorship program
- Business plan creation
- Financial checklist assistance
Funding
To help provide producers with many
of the educational opportunities and support necessary for success, GreenStone once again is committing up to $40,000 annually to young, beginning, and small farmers through the CultivateGrowth Grant program. Grants are available𠊏or customers ($1000/year) and non- customers ($500/year) for reimbursement of activities and resources that will help them learn and grow their business – including the educational opportunities outlined above. This money can be used for educational programs and events , business related GreenStone services like accounting and tax services, and resources such as business and farm consultants.
Networking
In reaching the goal to prepare the next generation of industry leaders for success, GreenStone is working to connect producers through the CultivateGrowth Mentorship program. Through this partnership, new and experienced farmers are connected to help share industry knowledge, pass along on-farm lessons, and help equip them for the challenges of the agricultural industry. The next class of mentee/mentor pairs will kick off this fall. Watch for applications to open in the summer!
As a mission driven cooperative, focused on the success of our members – which excitedly includes the diverse future of farmers, markets and production practices – the refreshed and expanded approach to serve our members through the CultivateGrowth program is one way we’re continually working to provide the solid foundation to grow together!
Get all the details and resources on our website: greenstonefcs.com/cultivategrowth.
To view the article in the online 2022 Winter Partners Magazine, click here.
