Missouri Alternative Loan Program

The Missouri Department of Agriculture provides direct loans through the Agriculture Development Fund to support the production, processing and marketing needs of an alternative agricultural enterprise.

Eligible applicants are legal Missouri residents at least 14 years old with projects located in Missouri. Applicants must demonstrate proof of citizenship, identity, and legal residency; if employing laborers, proof of federal work-authorization enrollment is required.

Maximum loan amount is $20,000 at a 6.0% interest rate with a maximum 5-year term and semi-annual payments. Eligible projects represent agricultural innovation, including horticulture, aquaculture, apiaries, tree farming, fee hunting areas, landscaping services, organic production, value-added processing, and farm mechanics for FFA/4-H students. A non-refundable $100 application fee applies and the borrower is responsible for closing costs.

Contact the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority at (573) 751-2129 or masbda@mda.mo.gov.