We’re here to help

Applying for a Loan: Step-by-Step

Supporting Local Food Systems, One Business at a Time

Our fund provides low and zero interest loans with patient, flexible repayment schedules, tailored to small businesses, as well as emerging entrepreneurs, in the food system.  Whether you're growing nutrient-dense food, using regenerative practices, or expanding access to healthy, local goods—we're here to help.

What we offer

  • Loan amounts: $10,000–$250,000

  • Rates: 0% or below-market interest

  • Repayments: Patient and flexible, tailored to your business needs

  • Support: Business planning tools, financial coaching, and community connections

How to Become a Borrower

Step 1:
Check Eligibility

We lend to food and farm businesses that:

  • Fill a gap in the regional food system

  • Promote sustainable or regenerative practices

  • Increase availability of affordable, whole food

  • Support smallholder farmers and food producers

Does this sound like you? Move on to Step 2!

Step 2:
Submit Your Application

Tell us about your business, your goals, and how the loan will support your grown. The application guide provides details about the application and ensures you’re ready to submit.

Step 3:
Connect With Us

Within two weeks of submitting your application, someone from our team will reach our to schedule a meeting.

We will discuss your plans for the loan proceeds and explore alignment between your business and our Fund’s impact and financial criteria.

Step 4:
Due Diligence & Review

Once alignment is established, we perform due diligence of market feasibility, team strength, and financial capabilities to decide whether to provide funds.

Overall, this process usually runs 1-3 months, though timelines vary.

Step 5:
Funding Decision & Support

A funding recommendation is presented to the Board of Directors. If approved, loan terms that work for your business are finalized.

Capital is deployed once loan terms are agreed to and loan documents are signed.

Repayments and reporting begin and last through the duration of your loan.

We support you with financial and impact reporting, network connections, and market outreach.

Questions?

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s build a better food system—together.