NIFA's Beginning Farmer/Rancher Loan Program

If you’re a farmer or rancher in Nebraska, NIFA has a program to help you start or scale your agribusiness. The NIFA Beginning Farmer/Rancher Loan Program helps eligible farmers and ranchers access agricultural loans at lower interest rates than those available in the conventional farm credit markets.

How does it work? 

NIFA issues a bond (purchased by the bank or other lender of the borrower’s choosing) and the interest is exempt from federal and Nebraska state income tax. The lender then sets the interest rate on the agricultural loan to reflect the tax-exempt rate on the bond, providing a lower rate for eligible farmers and ranchers. 

View the FAQ Form

Borrower Eligibility

Eligible Agricultural Projects

Loan Amount & Terms

Application & Financing Process

Fees