Interest-free, unsecured loans of up to £25,000 are now available to organic and ecological farmers following the relaunch of the charitable Dean Organic Fund.
Run by the Organic Research Centre, the fund was established by Jennie Bone, a passionate organic farmer who wanted to create a legacy for conservation and organic farming methods.
The loans are available to small or start-up farming businesses that might otherwise struggle to secure commercial funding, explained Chris Jones, adviser to the Dean Organic Fund.
Terms range from two to five years, with loans from £5,000 to £25,000. “We are looking to make a big impact and support a wide variety of enterprises founded on organic farming principles. The Fund is open to applicants from all walks of life and may just provide that turn-key investment to a well-founded enterprise,” he said.
Since 2018, the fund has supported nearly 50 farmers, producers and food businesses, ranging from market gardens in the Cotswolds to a pop-up organic shop, organic dairies and a community-led vegetable enterprise.
Loan terms are moulded to suit the business requirements in each case and benefit from realistic repayment terms, said Chris, adding: “We do not expect a return on our investment, but we do expect to see the legacy fund delivering growth in the organic sector, with loan applications reaching a high bar of planning and thought.”
Applications are welcome from private or public companies, sole traders, partnerships and community/social or charitable enterprises with a legal entity.
“Applicants will preferably be certified organic producers or in conversion, but otherwise should follow practices closely aligned to organic principles,” said Chris. “This really is a golden opportunity for businesses exploring, innovating or expanding in the organic sector.”
www.organicresearchcentre.com/farming-organically/the-dean-organic-fund
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