Did you know that farm land loans are designed specifically for female farmers? These financial resources can help you manage your farm’s operating costs, invest in technology to make your farming operations more efficient, and on a bigger scale, do your part in growing the country’s agricultural sector.
Why is it more challenging for women to get farm loans?
Research shows that female farmers often receive fewer loans than male counterparts due to biases in the lending process. In fact, women manage or co-manage about 43% of U.S. farmland but own just 9% of it.
Luckily, lending approaches are becoming much more objective these days to ensure that everyone—regardless of gender—gets equal opportunities.
Farm loans and grants for women are now available from different lenders. In this guide, we talk about the different options as well as their benefits and drawbacks, plus advice on choosing the right loan and lender.
What are the general types of farm loans for women?
As a woman farmer or rancher, you have various loan options available, whether you’re looking to purchase a family farm or need financial support for your operations. These loans generally offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms.
SBA loans –
Loans from the Small Business Administration are often the best option if you’re in the initial stages of starting your farming business or if you are expanding your current capacity.
For example, you can use SBA 7(a) loans to fund various aspects of your farming operations, including land, equipment, or livestock purchases. You can also look into SBA Express loans for quicker funding if you need financial assistance right away.
And for smaller funding needs, consider SBA microloans, which provide up to $50,000 to help cover operational costs or purchase supplies.
FSA loans –
Farm Service Agency loans are another option if you’re looking to expand your agricultural operations or invest in new equipment to scale your farm. You can use the proceeds to purchase land or livestock, upgrade your farm’s facilities, or even cover family living expenses.
Because of their favorable terms and interest rates, FSA loans are accessible, especially to historically underserved groups, including women farmers.
Business term loans –
A business term loan may be a good option if you need to fund long-term projects meant to expand your operations, any activity that will grow your business and increase your profitability.
For example, you can use it to invest in new equipment or even buy additional land. These loans come with fixed terms and rates, so you can enjoy some stability in your financial planning.
Equipment financing –
Farms that invest in new machinery and technology tend to be more successful. If you’re interested in modernizing your farm, equipment financing might be the way.
New machines can help enhance your productivity while reducing labor costs and boosting your farm’s overall efficiency. They can also help you stay competitive and adapt to changes in agricultural trends.
Who are the best lenders for farm loans for women?
Farm loans for women are offered by different types of lenders, including banks, government agencies/community development lenders, and alternative private lenders.
- In general, traditional banks provide competitive interest rates, but not all of them have financial solutions tailored to your needs as a female rancher or farmer. Qualifying for a traditional bank loan can also be challenging.
- Government lenders like the SBA and FSA tend to have more tailored options. However, note that the SBA doesn’t fund loans directly. You will need to apply through an SBA-approved lender (such as a bank, credit union, or an alternative lender). These SBA-approved lenders often have personnel who focus on providing financial assistance to underserved sectors (like women) in the agricultural sector. Meanwhile, the FSA provides financing directly or through a network of business and nonprofit lenders for ranchers, farmers, or other agricultural businesses. Thoroughly review the eligibility criteria before applying to make sure that you’re qualified so that you can prepare the documents early.
- If you don’t qualify for loans from these traditional sources, don’t worry. Alternative lenders have become a practical choice for farm loans beyond banks and the government. They typically offer more flexible eligibility criteria and faster approval processes, catering to your specific needs as a woman in farming.
What are the benefits of farm loans for women?
Overall, these specialized farm loans for women can empower you in a male-dominated industry. They let you access essential financial support for successful farming operations.
More specifically, farm loans for women enable underserved women in rural areas to overcome financial barriers and establish sustainable farming practices. With the funds, you can buy the seeds, fertilizers, and livestock you need for successful farming operations. These resources allow you to diversify your crops and livestock and contribute to food security and economic growth.
You can even use farm loans to invest in agricultural education and training programs. This is a great way to gain knowledge that equips you with advanced farming techniques and helps you adapt to changing market demands.
That said, cost is a major challenge when it comes to agriculture loans for women—particularly rates and fees. Women often face credit challenges that can increase the cost of financing.
It can also be difficult to meet the collateral requirements set by traditional financial institutions, as some women may not have the necessary assets to pledge as collateral.
The approval process for farm loans can be complex and time-consuming—especially if you’re borrowing from a bank or the government—so be prepared to wait. Possible discrimination or bias during the loan approval process.
And because most agricultural loan borrowers have traditionally been men, there’s still a lack of financial products tailored specifically to women’s needs. Things are looking up, though, and more lenders—especially alternative lenders—are becoming more proactive in customizing farm loans for women.
How can women apply for farm loans?
Different lenders have different requirements, of course, but in general, you will need a proof of income, a business plan, documents showing your credit history, and other relevant financial information.
You will also need to fill out the loan application form. Accuracy is key. Provide all the necessary details and be prepared to discuss your farming experience, your plan for your farm, and your financial goals.
If your application is successful, you’ll receive the funds to support your agricultural business. Use the funds wisely and maintain a good repayment record to keep a positive relationship with your lender.
What are the interest rates on farm loans for women?
Like other farm loans, agriculture loans for women generally feature competitive interest rates that vary based on factors such as the loan amount, repayment period, and the lender. Take the time to compare interest rates from various lenders to find the best fit for your financial situation.
When doing the math, remember to consider the associated fees—this includes application fees, processing fees, and late payment charges. It’s important that you fully understand these fees to calculate the total cost of borrowing accurately and make well-informed decisions when selecting a lender.
Are there farm grants specifically for women farmers?
Farm grants are available from government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private foundations. These grants are designed to empower women and minority farmers by providing financial support for agricultural projects.
Potential grants for women farmers include:
- American Agri-Women Scholarships and Grants
- Annie’s Grants for Gardens
- FarmHer Grow Program
- National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Women and Minorities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Fields Program
- Rural Business Development Grants by USDA
- Small Business Innovation Research Program by USDA
- USDA Farm Service Agency’s Women and Minority Farmers and Ranchers Program
- Vermont Farm Women’s Fund.
- Young Farmer Grant Program.
- Various local and state-specific grants
Farm grants allow you to invest in equipment, seeds, and training programs to expand your operations and enhance your farm’s productivity.
However, note that it can be hard to secure farm grants due to limited funding and high demand. The application requirements are stringent, and you will likely face competition from other applicants, so you must thoroughly prepare your grant applications.
If you’re a beginner farmer, you may have a better chance at applying for agricultural funding through the Farm Service Agency’s guaranteed loan programs. The FSA provides loans for land and equipment purchases. You can also explore crop insurance and support from organizations like the National Young Farmers Coalition.
Are there other business loans for women that can be used for farming?
Yes, there are specialized business loans for women entrepreneurs, and they often feature competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms. Many financial institutions offer specific programs and resources for women-owned businesses.
If you’re interested in farm loans, talk to our consultants here at Private Capital Investors. We offer a wide variety of funding solutions and can customize a loan that best meets your needs as a woman in agriculture.
