CFRA Meat & Poultry Processing Loans

Center for Rural Affairs (CFRA) loans, established under the USDA Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program, fund equipment, facilities, and working capital for existing, expanding, or start-up meat processors — covering business expansion or start-up, real estate purchase, facility updates, equipment purchase, energy efficiency upgrades, purchase of an existing business, and working capital.

Available to primary (slaughter) and secondary (cut, pack, value-added) meat processors that are USDA inspected or have a plan to seek USDA inspection. Available in Nebraska, and regionally/nationally depending on funding availability. Custom-exempt facilities are not eligible here (they are directed to CFRA's general small-business loans instead).

Loans range $50,000–$2,000,000. Rates anticipated between 5–7% (as of August 2026); closing fee 1–3% of loan amount; no prepayment penalty. Amortization 1–20 years depending on use (working capital/construction 1–3 years; equipment/facility upgrades 3–15 years; construction/real estate 10–20 years). Minimum 10–20% owner equity required for start-ups. Collateralized by business or personal assets.

Contact Meg Jackson (402.603.0026, megj@cfra.org) or complete CFRA's initial intake form. Required documents include business financials, tax returns, proof of ownership, sources-and-uses schedule, business plan, personal financial statement/tax returns, and an environmental review if required. All loans require USDA concurrence on the underwriting recommendation.