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 weather 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, or repair or buy equipment.

Micro-Loans Available for NM Farmers

Loans in amounts of $500 to $3,000 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-qualification 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 New Mexico Farmers Markets Association, Permaculture Guild and Permaculture Credit Union are hopeful that this new program will support the economic growth of agricultural producers across New Mexico.

Comments from Farmers

“Being a small business, and with the current state of the national economy it is difficult at best for small producers to secure financing. With your help we were able to get the needed funds to purchase our tractor. We are seeing the projected savings as we no longer rent a tractor for daily farm chores. We also have been able to provide a more healthy environment for our animals as we are able to clean barns and maintain their areas more frequently. We have used the tractor to complete needed fencing, and it has come in very handy in moving the milk and hay trailers, helping increase efficiency and providing a better working environment for our staff. It also looks good on the farm, as you can see by the photo! Your support is greatly, greatly appreciated.”

Michael & Ed Lobaugh
The Old Windmill Dairy
Estancia, NM

 

“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

 

“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

 

 

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-deductible 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.