Capital is often the path to success for many businesses including Hawaii’s farmers. Resources to help farmers find start-up and operating capital are included below.
Commercial Banks & Credit Unions
Commercial banks and credit unions offer direct loans. They also offer participation loans that may be partially funded by another outside source. Banks and credit unions may also fund loans through a government guaranteed loan program such as the Small Business Administration (SBA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development agency.
Farm Credit System
The Farm Credit System is a national financial cooperative that lends money and provides financial services to agriculture in rural America. The Federal Land Bank Association of Hawaii and the Hawaii Production Credit Association merged to form Farm Credit Services of Hawaii.
Federal Loan Programs
Federal loan programs under USDA are applicable for Hawaii’s farmers including Rural Development and Farm Service Agency. The Small Business Administration also provides loans and works through commercial banks and credit unions.