Loans for Young, Beginning & Small Farmers
Financing the Future of Farming
Farming is more than a job; it’s a way of life. But starting or growing a farm comes with real challenges. Whether you’re launching a part-time operation, expanding your family’s legacy, or buying land for the first time, AgSouth Farm Credit helps young or beginning producers secure land and farm loans that make growth possible.
How AgSouth Farm Credit Helps Young and Beginning Farmers
AgSouth understands that starting a farm comes with more questions than answers. Our AgStrong® YBS Program supports young, beginning, and small farmers with flexible financing, education, and one-on-one guidance to help you turn ambition into action.
Our AgStrong® YBS Program features potential benefits based on eligibility and specific circumstances that may include:
- Competitive interest rates
- Reduced or waived loan fees
- Flexible underwriting
- Down payment assistance
- FSA partnership on qualified loans
- Specialized ag lenders who understand your goals
- Patronage Program where you can get a portion of our profits back
What Can Beginning Farmer Loans Be Used For?
You can use an AgStrong® young and beginning farmer loan to:
- Cover annual operating expenses
- Purchase farm and land real estate
- Buy livestock
- Buy or repair farm equipment
- Improve your property with barns, fencing, or greenhouses
- Launch small agribusiness ventures
Do I qualify for a Young or Beginning Farmer Loan?
You may be eligible if you meet any of the following:
- 35 years old or younger
- 10 years or less of farming experience
- Less than $350,000 in annual gross agricultural sales
We also provide loans for youth projects, ages 10-17.
What Education Does AgSouth Offer for Young and Beginning Farmers?
We believe strong farms start with confident business owners. Learn the business of farming before you take on the business of a loan. AgSouth provides free and low-cost education for young and beginning farmers.
Customer Story
Cherry Hill Farms
Cherry Hill Farms in Mocksville, North Carolina is a small fruit and vegetable operation that provides produce to local businesses. They financed their initial equipment loan with AgSouth Farm Credit and expanded their operation to later include a packing house.
How to Apply for a Young and Beginning Farmer Loan
- Connect with your local AgSouth Farm Credit lender.
- Share your goals and experience level.
- Build a financing plan that potentially includes FSA partnership.
- Apply and start growing your operation.
Young and Beginning Farmer Loan FAQs
Can I get a farm loan if I still work full-time off the farm?
Yes. Many small and beginning farmers start part-time. AgSouth’s AgStrong® Program is built to help you scale gradually.
What’s the difference between a beginning farmer loan and a regular farm loan?
Beginning farmer loans may include flexible underwriting, potential fee reductions, and FSA-guaranteed options for new producers. These programs are based on eligibility.
Do I need a business plan to apply?
Yes, but we’ll help you build one. AgSouth offers templates and coaching to guide you through it.
Tools for Young & Beginning Farmers
Ready to Apply for a Young and Beginning Farmer Loan?
About AgSouth Farm Credit
AgSouth Farm Credit is a member-owned agricultural cooperative serving Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. We provide land, farm, home, and agribusiness financing and return profits to our customers through patronage refunds.