Applicants must be at least 18 years old, own or manage an incorporated business or non-profit that centers food production, and utilize regenerative agricultural practices or in some way support farmers who do. Please see our Lending page for a full list of eligibility criteria.
We do not support operations focused primarily on hydroponics, aquaponics, alcohol production, cannabis or hemp production, commodity crops, or monocultural production. Operations focused primarily on cut flowers must also demonstrate current or anticipated food production. Businesses that rely on heavy chemical use, or that cannot demonstrate a clear understanding and dedication of regenerative / organic practices, are not a fit for financing from Foodshed Capital unless they are actively working to implement new practices.
Foodshed Capital is based in Virginia but has served borrowers in 19 states, Washington DC, and Puerto Rico as of October 2025. We expand our footprint every year through partnership with national farm advocacy organizations and place-based regional farm service providers. We do not work internationally. If you’re in a state we haven’t worked in yet, the best way for us to consider your location is by creating a quick free account and completing our short intake form here.

Foodshed Capital does not pull credit scores, nor are credit scores a component of our underwriting process. We do take careful steps to make sure you are prepared to manage debt, including looking closely at your revenue projections and seasonal cash flow.
Applicants must have a registered business to qualify for financing. A minimum of two full seasons of practical production experience on an established working farm similar to proposed venture is required. Managerial experience will be taken into account. A minimum of one full year of related practical and managerial experience for those seeking to launch another kind of food business is required. Please note: businesses without historical financials are eligible for a maximum of $15,000 in financing, unless they have received a grant award and are applying for bridge financing.
No. We understand that land security is an enormous barrier facing many beginning and existing producers, but at this time, our financing cannot be used to secure farmland.

Our current lending minimum is $5,000 and maximum is $150,000.
Terms vary according to your business' unique circumstances and revenue projections. Terms range from 3-7 years with an optional 3-month grace period, and monthly repayments.
Rates range between 0% and 6.75%. A half-point rate reduction is available for borrowers enrolled in auto-pay. Foodshed Capital’s interest rates are a weighted average of the current prime rate and our cost of capital. Our rates prioritize low-income borrowers in accordance with our mandated commitments as a Community Development Financial Institution, and those who are actively producing food. Average interest rate in 2024 was 1.88%.

Please review the "To Apply" drop-downs on our Lending page relevant to standard and bridge loans.
Yes, a farm loan interest is tax deductible as a business expense on a Schedule F.
Due to capacity constraints, our business advising services are currently available only to those who are navigating the loan application process. We periodically offer free public workshops tailored to the needs of small farmers. Our All-Purpose Bookkeeping program offers an affordable pathway to getting your financial records organized, which is a critical first step to preparing for a loan. If we can help with other recommendations, we will try! Please reach out to our team here.

FAQs