If you are struggling to find financing for your small-scale farm or ranch, don’t overlook the Farm Service Agency. While the FSA is sometimes mistaken as being geared towards large-scale commodity producers, they offer many programs that can help smaller operations get started, scale-up, or access operating capital.

The Community Food and Agriculture Coalition and Farm Link Montana, in partnership with the National Center for Appropriate Technology, have created a guide to help small producers find these programs. Highlighted Farm Service Agency Programs for Small-Scale or Diversified Farmers and Ranchers outlines key programs that can help you grow your dream farm or ranch.

The guide includes information about Farm Ownership Loans, Down Payment Assistance, Farm Operating Loans, Microloans, Emergency Loans, Farm Storage Facility Loans, Transition Incentive Program (CRP-TIP), Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP), Tree Assistance Program, Livestock Forage Disaster Program, Livestock Indemnity Program, and Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish.

Once you find the program that fits your farm or ranch, Follow the simple 5-step process below to prepare to apply for FSA financing. Prepare your plan and find out what you need to bring with you for your FSA appointment.