For young, beginning, and small farmers, getting started in the farming industry can often bring many challenges. But finding a lender who can help doesn’t have to be one of them.
No one understands the challenges and dreams of America’s future farmers better than AgHeritage Farm Credit Services. And there’s no one more motivated to help make those dreams come true. That’s why we offer loans and financial services to Young, Beginning and Small farmers (YBS).
We work closely with governmental agencies and other organizations. We can tailor loans to fit the unique needs of YBS farmers. And we don’t stop there. We also actively support programs, educational activities and special events that benefit YBS farmers.
Young, Beginning & Small Farmers are defined as:
- 35 years old or younger
- Beginning farmers have 10 years or less of production experience
- Small farmers have less than $350,000 in annual gross sales
We are Committed to Young, Beginning, Small Farmers. The AgHeritage Board of Directors understands first hand the importance of supporting Young, Beginning and Small Farmers. These programs are seen as opportunities to contribute to shaping the future of American farmers and ranchers.
YBS are encouraged to take advantage of young and beginning farmer programs offered by the Farm Service Agency and the Cooperative Extension Service. We support and encourage continuing education through sponsorships of educational events such as the Arkansas State University Agricultural Business Conference and other seminars held throughout the year. We also support local FFA and 4-H chapters and offer a scholarship program for dependent children of AgHeritage FCS shareholders as well as a university scholarship program which is available to customers and non-customers.
For more information on the Young, Beginning and Small Farmer program contact your local branch office.
Future Legacy YBS Conference
The Future Legacy Young and Beginning Farmers Conference took place from February 19th to 20th, 2024 in Little Rock, Arkansas. The event, hosted by the Farm Credit Association of Arkansas, drew over 50 attendees from across the state. The conference kicked off with representatives from each of the Farm Credit associations, discussing the significance of supporting young and beginning farmers.
Dr. Dave Kohl, Professor Emeritus at Virginia Tech and an expert in the agriculture industry, provided financial planning advice and highlighted key agricultural trends throughout the conference.
Partnering with Farm Credit of Western Arkansas and Farm Credit of Mid-America, we are delighted to offer this opportunity to support young, beginning, and small farmers in Arkansas.
The Future Legacy Young and Beginning Farmers Conference is a free biennial event that offers educational and networking opportunities, hosted by the Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas.
