For those looking to start a farm, you may want to check in with resource agencies that can be helpful in financing your dream. The idea to start this farm was a spur of the moment flash that has gained momentum and support as it has unfolded. My personal resources were at almost nothing and my job situation was and is sporadic and seasonal. So, I went looking for unique ways to bring in some financial resources.
The Small Business Development Center in Gresham, OR has been very helpful in steering me towards funding sources I didn't know anything about. Crowd funding, IDA's, microloans, bartering and such have come into my sphere of knowledge. At this time, since Spring is not completely here and my farming operation is still in it's fetal stage, I'm sifting through this information to see what fits me and my situation.
I have an aversion to debt so I'm not considering those programs that are loan related. If I choose to go that route, there are many options for low interest farm loans, especially for new farmers. When the time comes, if it ever does, I have a great source list for those agencies.
I have, however, endeavored to connect with agencies in Oregon that do business related IDAs (Individual Development Account). I'm currently working with Mercy Corps in Portland and am hoping to apply for their program within the week. The website goes through the pre-qualification questions and it seemed to fit me. There are some courses that are a pre-requisite to applying and I'm fulfilling those now. By the end of 6 months, I hope to have an extra $3000 in my pocket and some excellent business training in my tool belt.
I've also connected with NRCS (Natural Resource and Conservation Service), a USDA program that works with land stewards to create a conservation plan for the farm and offer reimbursement programs for projects that may already be on my list of things to do. Looks like I'm a prime candidate for their local "Soil Health" contract and their state-wide "Seasonal High Tunnel" program. The conservationist that did a site visit with me encouraged me to wait to apply until Fall since I don't have all the infrastructure present to warrant the application now. And once the farm has been operational for a couple of years, I can apply for their "Conservation Stewardship Program" and get financial reimbursements for my current conservation practices as well as reimbursement for enhancing those practices. Sounds good to me.
All of this business focus makes me antsy after awhile. All I want to do is put my hands in the soil and plant some seeds! And it snowed up here today, predicting 18 degrees in this area tomorrow. Soon enough.