Loan Agency
ASAP has compiled the following list of loans available to farmers in the Southern Appalachian region. As we learn about new opportunities, we will be sure to add them. For a comprehensive listing of all federal funding opportunities that foster innovative enterprise in forestry and agriculture, please consult the SARE guide to Federal Programs for Sustainable Agriculture, Forestry, Entrepreneurship, Conservation, and Community Development.
Note: Contact the loan providers directly for up-to-date information.
See also our list of grants available to farmers in the Southern Appalachian Region.
LOAN — Golden Leaf Small Business Assistance Fund
Self-Help offers the Golden LEAF Small Business Assistance Fund, which aims to create jobs by helping businesses expand. Emphasis on economically-distressed and rural communities in North Carolina (Tier 1, Tier 2 and formerly tobacco-dependent Tier 3 counties).Read More ▶▶
LOAN — NC Rural Center – Thread Capital
Who Is Eligible? The basic requirements for Thread Capital are: You must be 18 years of age Your business must be based in N.C. Your business should not be involved in adult entertainment, multi-level marketing, real estate speculation, lending, or […]Read More ▶▶
LOAN — NC Rural Center: Microenterprise Loan Program
The NC Rural Center has funding to work with individuals who have sound ideas for starting or expanding a small business but may not qualify for bank credit. The program offers loans ranging from $500-$25,000 and provides assistance to help clients develop strong applications and successful businesses. Since launching in 1989, the program has made more than 1,600 loans totaling more than $9 million.Read More ▶▶
LOAN — USDA FSA: Direct Farm Ownership Loan
Through the FSA direct farm ownership program, eligible farmers and ranchers can borrow up to $300,000 to buy farmland, construct or repair buildings, pay closing costs, or promote soil and water conservation. Read More ▶▶
LOAN — USDA Rural Development: Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans (B&I)
B&I Guaranteed Loans are used to improve, develop, or finance business, industry, and employment and improve the economic and environmental climate in rural communities.Read More ▶▶
LOAN AGENCY — Carolina Farm Credit
Whether you’re a full or part time farmer, or just want a place in the country, we offer financing! From farms to timber tracts, from country homes to recreational property, we finance it all.Read More ▶▶
LOAN AGENCY — Mountain Bizworks
Mountain Bizworks is a 25 year-old nonprofit loan fund that provides financing to small businesses, with a particular emphasis on family-sized farms and other food producers and agri-businesses. Read More ▶▶
LOAN AGENCY — Natural Capital Investment Fund (NCIF)
NCIF makes investments in companies and projects that promote sustainable economic development, and have a positive impact on human health and the natural environment. Businesses located in North Carolina; Virginia; West Virginia; and the Appalachian regions of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio are eligible to apply. Read More ▶▶
LOAN AGENCY — Self-Help Credit Union / Carolina Mountains Credit Union (CMCU)
CMCU/Self-Help offers personal loans, car loans, small business loans, home loans, and home equity loans. Particular focus is on small business loans to minority- and woman-owned businesses, particularly in the following industries: manufacturing, construction, agriculture, “green” business, healthcare, defense, and aerospace. Read More ▶▶
LOAN AGENCY — Small Business Administratrion (SBA) Small Loan Advantage
Small Loan Advantage is a loan guaranty program structured to encourage existing SBA lenders to make lower-dollar loans, which often benefit businesses in underserved markets.Read More ▶▶
