Minority and Women Farmers and Ranchers Loan Program

Link

https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/minority-and-women-farmers-and-ranchers/index

Additional Links

Loans for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Fact Sheet

Deadline

Applications accepted on an ongoing basis

Sponsor

USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA)

Purpose

Offers loans to historically underserved farmers and ranchers to finance farming and ranching operations, purchase land, build or improve facilities, and help cover family living expenses. Loans are made through one of five USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loan programs. A portion of all funds from each program are set aside to specifically target farmers and ranchers from minority and underserved groups and assist them in starting and sustaining successful farms and ranches.

USDA FSA loan programs include:

  • Farm Operating Loans to finance the cost of operations essential to the success of a farm or ranch
  • Farm Ownership Loans to purchase or put a down payment on a new farm or ranch; expand an existing farm or ranch; or build, purchase, or improve farm dwellings, service buildings, or other facilities; and more
  • Guaranteed Farm Loans that help farmers obtain commercial loans at reasonable terms from USDA-approved private lenders
  • Microloan Programs that provide financing for non-traditional farm operations, including truck farms, hydroponic, aquaponic, vertical, and organic producers, as well as direct marketing and sales through farmer's markets, community-supported agriculture, restaurants, and grocery stores

Amount of Funding

Loan amounts, interest rates, and terms vary based on the USDA FSA program through which an applicant is seeking a loan. Specific information regarding loan amounts, rates, and terms can be found on the appropriate USDA FSA program webpages.

Who Can Apply

Eligible minority and underserved farmers and ranchers include:

  • Women
  • African Americans
  • Alaskan Natives
  • American Indians
  • Hispanic
  • Asian
  • Native Hawaiians
  • Pacific Islanders

In addition, applicants must also meet the eligibility criteria for the specific USDA FSA program through which they are seeking a loan.

Geographic Coverage

Nationwide

What This Program Funds

Buildings and Facilities • Capacity Building • Equipment • Operating Costs and Staffing • Starting a Business

Application Process

Application instructions, requirements, and other information can be found on the corresponding webpage for each eligible USDA FSA program that offers targeted loan funding for women and minorities.

Applicants must voluntarily provide race, ethnicity, and gender information on the loan application in order to be considered for a loan under this program.

Contact

For program questions:
Contact the appropriate USDA Farm Service Agency state office

Topics This Program Addresses

American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians • Economic Development • Women