Permaculture farmers are incredibly dedicated to producing and distributing healthy, natural foods to their local communities. Their work provides many health benefits to those who use their products.

Yet these dedicated men and women often face difficult hurdles that result from unpredictable wealthier events, the economy, and their need to keep equipment up to date. In many cases, just a small loan at a low rate of interest can give them the resources they need to plant more acreage or new crops, raise different livestock, or repair or buy equipment.

Micro-Loans Now Available for NM Farmers

May 5, 2010

In partnership with the New Mexico Farmers’ Markets Association  and the Permaculture Credit Union, the  Permaculture Guild has introduced a micro-loan program for farmers across the state of New Mexico.

Loans in amounts of $500 to $2500 are available for any small-scale farmers who sell their produce at New Mexico farmers’ markets. The loans have a 6% fixed interest rate and can be paid back within 40 months. For eligibility requirements and pre-qualificiation letter guidelines, download this PDF.

The purpose of the loan program is to help small-scale farmers who may have difficulty obtaining funds from other sources obtain loan funds at reasonable rates with individualized payment schedules. The NMFMA Permaculture Guild and PCU are hopeful that this new program will encourage the economic growth of agricultural producers across New Mexico.

Comments from Farmers

“I grow carrots, potatoes, and onions in Cerro, N.M., and needed a loan to complete the construction of a refrigerated storage building to hold my harvest so that I can sell it from August through December. The process of getting the micro-loan was as easy as explaining why I wanted the loan in a letter that I composed in a few minutes and emailed to the Permaculture Guild. I received a phone call a week later letting me know that the loan was approved; not even a credit check was required. After completion of a one page loan application with the PCU , I had the loan funds in my pocket. The Permaculture Guild has made the micro-loan application process as easy and pleasant as I can imagine.”

Daniel Carmona
Cerro Vista Farm
Cerro, NM

Margaret Campos & Her Mother Eremita at Comida de Campos in Embudo, NM

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“The Permaculture Guild really came through when we needed them, seemingly without the normal pressures of dealing with a bank. Their actions reflect a community minded group who care about the success of their local economy.”

Margaret Campos
Comida de Campos
Embudo, NM
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Please Help the Permaculture Guild Help Farmers in New Mexico

Investing in the success of the permaculture community is an investment in your own health and the health of the planet. Help the dedicated men and women who grow and produce your food by making a tax-deductable donation. (Just click on the Donate button on the right side of this page.)

If you’d like more information about the Permaculture Guild, please contact us on the Contact Us page.