Farm Finance Digest | March 2025
(An excerpt from ‘Farm Finance Digest’: SCI’s Monthly Newsletter)
UPDATES FROM THE REGENERATIVE FINANCE HUB
In times when funding runs dry, the true strength of our agricultural community reveals itself not in the depth of our pockets, but in the breadth of our connections. As we navigate these lean times together, we're witnessing the emergence of something remarkable: a vibrant ecosystem of mutual support that mirrors the very principles of regenerative agriculture we practice in our fields.
Just as diversity in our soil creates resilience against drought, our diverse community networks are providing pathways forward when traditional supports falter. Farmers helping farmers, foundations stepping up with emergency funds, and organizations offering crucial guidance – these are the cover crops that protect us during challenging seasons.
This month's newsletter highlights the resources sprouting up to help bridge the funding gaps many of you are experiencing. From the Regenerative Farmer Assurance Fund offering bridge financing, to legal guidance from Farm Commons, to alternative funding sources and educational opportunities – each represents a tendril of hope in our interconnected web of support.
🌾 Remember, regeneration isn't just about the soil – it's about regenerating our systems of support and finding strength in community when we need it most.
-Julie Davenson, Director of Program Integration and Finance
RESOURCES
REGENERATIVE FARMER ASSURANCE FUND (RFAF)
Farmer's facing reimbursement delays in the midwest are eligible to apply for up to $50,000 through the Healing Soil Foundation’s RFAF Fund.
Farmers who have executed contracts for programs like EQIP, CSP, and RFSI but have not received expected reimbursements.
Up to $50,000 per farmer, for larger infrastructure grants, farmers are encouraged to reapply as additional funds are needed.
Rolling applications – funds are distributed as available.
Farmers reimburse the fund if and when their delayed public funding is received.
MY FEDERAL CONTRACT IS FROZEN. WHAT CAN I DO?
The Farm Commons empowers agricultural communities to resolve their own legal vulnerabilities, within an ecosystem of support.
They are offering a number of free resources to assist farmers impacted by the federal funding freezes. including legal action steps and filing an appeal letter.
NRCS CONSERVATION PRACTICE SERIES
NCAT has launched a series of video overviews of NRCS soil health practices videos. These conservation practices are eligible for EQIP cost share programs through your NRCS office.
There is an extensive list of practices covered including:
Practice 328: Conservation Crop Rotation
Practice 340: Cover Crops
Practice 345 Reduced Tillage
Practice 386: Field Borders
Practice 391 Riparian Areas
Practice 422 Hedgerow Plantings
CROWDFUNDING FOR FARMS
Farmers are increasingly using crowdfunding platforms to raise money for various agricultural projects. Here are some ways they are utilizing these platforms:
Kiva: Kiva offers a form of crowdlending where farmers can receive interest-free loans from individual lenders. This platform is particularly useful for small-scale farmers who need capital for specific projects but prefer not to offer rewards or equity.
NU: NU specializes in food, beverage and agricultural projects, making it easier for farmers to connect with supporters who are passionate about sustainable farming practices.
SHOT FUND EQIP 0% BRIDGE LOAN PROGRAM
Access to Public Funds for High Impact Regen Ag Practices
The SHOT Fund will help move public funds towards regenerative practices by providing each of the following:
Capacity support to win public grants and reduce administrative hurdles
Financing to overcome barriers to access public funding
Technical assistance to implement durable and regenerative practices
Market and supply chain support for food and fiber systems
Watch the March video or visit the website to learn more about this important program.
EVENTS
WEBINAR
Communicating the Impacts of Regenerative Agriculture
March 19, 2025 | 1:30-3:00 PM MT
Join the Regenerative Agriculture Network (RAN) for a conversation about communicating regenerative agriculture's ecological, social, and economic impact, especially in the context of federal funding uncertainty.
To Register:
Email Nina Katz at nina.katz@quiviracoalition.org or click the button below.
UPCOMING GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
March 2025 Deadlines
🌾 USDA Northwest & Rocky Mountain Regional Food Business Center (Wyoming): Business Builder grants for local food producers and value-added food businesses
Deadline: March 14
April 2025 Deadlines
🌾 USDA Rural Business Development: Value-Added Producer Grants
Deadline: April 17
May 2025 Deadlines
🌾 US AgWest Farm Credit : New Producer Grant Program. Up to $15,000 for the start-up of new agricultural ventures in AK, WA, OR, ID, MT, and parts of CA, NV and AZ.
Deadline: May 31