Accessing capital is one of the many challenges facing farmers. Agricultural financing is crucial for maintaining production, expanding operations, or trying different enterprises. To maximize profits, more farmers and farm entrepreneurs are turning away from simple commodity crops in favor of more complicated or diversified enterprises. These new business models may be unfamiliar to lenders and the farmer may need to take some extra steps in preparing and presenting his or her business plans. This guide is a tool to help transitioning farmers and farm entrepreneurs take those steps.

This guide was written to:

• Improve your understanding of agricultural finance
• Help you get ready to apply for financing for your agricultural or farm-related venture
• Give you tools to increase your opportunities for accessing capital
• Connect you with other resources where you can learn more

By using this guide, you’ll learn how to:

• Assess and potentially improve your credit score
• Initiate the business planning process for your farm enterprise
• Approach a lender with a well-written business plan and loan application materials