Young Beginning Farmers

At AgStar, we understand starting a career in farming comes with its own unique set of challenges. That's why we created GroundBreakers, a program for young, beginning & small farmers designed to provide ongoing access to credit, related financial services and outreach programs.

In 2008, AgStar developed nearly 2,000 new relationships with beginning farmers. And, having originated over $400 million in new loans and leases to beginning farmers last year, we’re no stranger to the distinct needs of new farmers.

If you are a farmer, rancher, producer or harvester of aquatic products and fit into one of the following classifications, you may be eligible for our GroundBreakers program:

• Young – age 35 or younger.
• Beginning – 10 years or less farming or ranching experience.
• Small – Generating less than $250,000 in annual gross sales.

GroundBreakers programs include:

Starter Loan Programs
For young and beginning farmers, we offer relaxed underwriting standards on ag loans up to $500,000. Plus, you’ll be able to take advantage of reduced loan fee schedules reflecting discounts up to 85%.  Learn more.

Educational Outreach/Events
Learn more about our educational activities focused on areas like commodity marketing, succession planning and risk management. Each year, AgStar designs educational outreach programs such as agriculture business tours, round-table discussions, or conferences. 

We also support other agricultural programs designed for future farmers and leaders including:

• MN Ag in the Classroom
• MN Association of Cooperatives Youth Leadership Conference 
• MN FFA Star Awards
• MN Agriculture Ambassador Institute Conference
• MN Ag and Rural Leadership program (MARL) 
• WI Jaycees – Outstanding Young Farmer Program
• Leadership Wisconsin
• Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin

Links
 Find more resources to help you get started.

• Farm Service Agency - Official website of USDA's Farm Service Agency, outlining various farm programs and tools.
  
• MARL - Minnesota Ag and Rural Leadership program for active adult agricultural and rural leaders. 
  
• NYFEA - National Young Farmer Educational Association, who seeks to provide support for the next generation by helping them understand the opportunities found in agriculture.
  
• Rural Finance Authority - AgStar often works with the MN Rural Finance Authority on loan programs that assist young, begining and small farmers.
  
• WHEDA - Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority programs for small business and agriculture. 

Find out more about AgStar Young, Beginning & Small Farmer programs. Contact Us or call 1-866-577-1831.