By Jamie Martin
On September 15, 2025, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. of North Carolina and Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland of Washington, together with Senator Peter Welch of Vermont, introduced the Capital for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Act. This bicameral legislation is designed to help new farmers and ranchers access the funding they need as farm input costs rise and agricultural prices fall.
Beginning farmers often encounter significant financial hurdles in their first years of operation. The bill directs the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to create a multi-year loan pilot program that offers long-term financing and technical assistance to address these challenges.
“The future of our agriculture industry depends on the next generation of farmers and ranchers, but high costs and shrinking profit margins make it difficult for them to enter the field,” said Congresswoman Adams.
“The Capital for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Act is a lifeline for our new agriculture producers, ensuring their access to essential programs like long-term loans, flexible financing terms, and technical assistance that strengthen their operations. Our farms, especially small, mid-sized, and family farms, need our support and I’m proud to introduce this bill to give them the resources they need to be successful.”
“New farmers starting their businesses often face financial barriers,” said Representative Strickland. “This bill gives farmers immediate access to capital as they begin their farming operations.”
“Supporting aspiring and beginner farmers is key to ensuring the long-term sustainability of our food systems and the health and welfare of our communities. Start-up funds are vital to building a business in any industry, and farming is no exception.
Yet for many beginning farmers—especially first-generation and farmers of color—financial barriers can make it difficult to break ground on their farm,” said Senator Welch. “Our bicameral bill will make it easier for beginning farmers in Vermont, North Carolina, Washington, and across the country to start and maintain farming operations.”
This act provides an important step toward securing the future of agriculture by giving new producers access to capital, supporting small and mid-sized farms, and strengthening food systems nationwide.
Photo Credit:usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: National