Beginning Farmer Advantage

Built for New Farms, Backed by Experience

Down arrow to content.

Beginning Farmer Advantage

Built for New Farms, Backed by Experience

Down arrow to content.

For over 95 years, Midwest Heritage has proudly supported agriculture and the families who power it. Our new Beginning Farmers Loan is designed specifically for first-time and emerging producers ready to build their future in farming.

Whether you're purchasing land, investing in equipment, or covering operating expenses, we provide flexible financing options backed by decades of agricultural lending expertise. With experienced ag lenders who understand the unique challenges of starting out, Midwest Heritage is here to provide the guidance, resources, and financial solutions you need to grow with confidence.

Loan Types

*Requirements – Have 10 years or less of Schedule F history. Primary Operating accounts to be held with Midwest Heritage. Have a total net worth  under $800,000. Must be an owner operator. FSA requirements for Real Estate are linked below.

Real Estate Rate Incentives

When paired with eligible FSA participation or down payment programs:

 

  • 3% below market – Year 1
  • 1.5% below market – Year 2
  • Then resets to market pricing*
  • May be eligible twice over 10 years
  • No maximum bank dollar limit (subject to FSA limits)
  • 30-year amortization available on bank portion
  • Designed for owner-operators (row crop/pasture)

FSA Real Estate Options

5/45/50 Down Payment Program

  • 5% borrower down payment
  • Bank: 50% LTV (1st position)
  • FSA: 45% LTV (up to program limits)
  • FSA rate example shown: 1.875%

50/50 Participation Program

  • Bank: 50% LTV (1st position)
  • FSA: 50% LTV (up to program limits)
  • FSA rate example shown: 3.875%
  • Programs subject to FSA eligibility and limits.

Operating Loan Incentives

For qualifying ag operating lines:

  • 1% below market rate
  • Up to $100,000 per year
  • Eligible up to 3 times
  • Crop insurance required for row crop operations.
  • FSA guaranteed line of credit preferred.

Livestock Term Debt Incentives

Growing your herd? We can help.

  • 0.50% below market rate
  • Up to $300,000
  • Eligible up to 3 years
  • LRP required on feeder/fat cattle purchases
FSA Real Estate Requirements

Request Information

Fill out the form below if you are interested in this loan and would like to learn more or apply.

Name(Required)

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Beginning Farmer Advantage loan options are financial products designed specifically for new or early-stage farmers to help cover startup costs, equipment purchases, land acquisition, and working capital. The loans have favorable interest rates and flexible repayment terms.

  • Have 10 years or less of Schedule F farm tax returns.
  • Be an owner operator.
  • Have a total net worth under $800,000.
  • Maintain your primary operating accounts with MHB.
  • Meet standard credit and FSA eligibility requirements.

  • Purchasing land or livestock
  • Buying equipment or farm supplies
  • Renovations or farm infrastructure
  • Operating expenses like seeds, feed, and utilities
  • Other farm-related startup costs

Yes! Borrowers may qualify up to two times over 10 years for real estate, and operating incentives may be used up to three times, if eligibility requirements continue to be met.

Coverage that Grows with Your Farm

You’re building your farm from the ground up. With tailored agribusiness insurance, you can safeguard your crops, livestock, and equipment, ensuring the hard work you’re putting in today grows into a secure tomorrow.

Insurance products are not FDIC insured, not a deposit, and may lose value.

Review Insurance Options