Agriculture & Farm Loans in Wisconsin & Minnesota

Agriculture and Farm Loan Options

At Forward Bank, we understand the unique financial needs of farmers and agricultural businesses. As a local community bank with expertise in agricultural loans and lines of credit, we’re here to help farmers access the funds they need to grow, purchase equipment, or manage day-to-day operations. Whether you’re expanding your farm, buying new machinery, or simply need flexible access to working capital, we offer a wide range of agriculture loans and lines of credit tailored to meet your specific goals. Our local team in Wisconsin and Minnesota provides personalized support and flexible solutions to keep your farm running smoothly.

Agriculture Line of Credit

Our agriculture line of credit offers flexible, revolving access to funds secured by farm property or personal property. It’s ideal for farmers who need extra cash for seasonal expenses or working capital. Use it to: cover input costs, bridge cash flow between planting and harvest, or take advantage of opportunities when timing matters most.

• Flexible repayment: Pay back what you can when funds are available.
• Revolving credit: Borrow, repay, and borrow again as needed.
• Flexible interest rate options: Choose a fixed rate or a monthly variable rate to meet your needs.
• Linked to checking: Prevent overdraft fees with automatic protection.

Operating Loans

Designed for short-term needs like crop input or equipment repair, our operating loans help you keep the farm running smoothly without straining your cash flow. Use it to: cover operational costs during planting and harvest seasons, handle unexpected expenses, or bridge income gaps between crop or livestock sales.

• Fixed payments: Monthly payments for easy budgeting.
• Short-term financing: Ideal for crop input or urgent equipment repairs.
• No prepayment penalties: Save money when you pay off early.

Personal Property Loans

This installment loan is perfect for financing machinery, equipment, or cattle. With fixed monthly payments and terms, you can plan your budget and grow your farm efficiently. Use it to: invest in new machinery, replace aging equipment, or expand your herd with financing that fits your budget.

• Fixed payments: Convenient, predictable monthly budgeting.
• Financing up to 75% of cost: Higher financing may be available with additional collateral.
• No prepayment penalties: Save money if you pay off early.

Real Estate Loans

Looking to purchase or refinance farm property? Our real estate loans provide long-term, fixed-rate financing to help you invest in land and buildings for your farm. Use it to: buy farmland, construct new facilities, or refinance current property loans for better terms.

• Fixed payments & terms: Predictable budgeting and peace of mind.
• Financing up to 80%: Lower down payments on qualifying property.
• Loan amortization up to 25 years: Longer terms to help manage cash flow.
• Possible tax advantages: Interest may be tax-deductible.

How Our Agriculture and Farm Loans Work

Running a farm means every dollar and every season matters. When you borrow through Forward Bank, you’ll get clear terms, local insight, and a lending partner who understands Wisconsin and Minnesota agriculture.

Loan Amounts and Terms

Farm and ag business loans range from $25,000 to several million, with repayment periods from one to 25 years depending on the type of financing and your operation’s needs. Whether you’re expanding acreage or upgrading equipment, we’ll help you find a structure that fits your cash-flow cycle.

Eligibility and Requirements

To get started, you’ll need some basic financial documentation:

• Most recent three years of income tax statements
• Detailed balance sheet showing a list of all owned business assets and liabilities
• Collateral details (equipment, livestock, or property)
• A brief business plan or budget outlining how funds will be used

Don’t have perfect credit? We partner with USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), WHEDA, and SBA programs that can help qualified farmers secure financing even if they don’t meet traditional lending requirements.

Choosing the Right Loan for Your Farm

Every operation is different, and the right financing depends on what you’re producing, your cash-flow cycles, and your long-term goals. Our team helps you think beyond just this season to find the loan that supports lasting success.

When to Use an Operating Loan vs. a Line of Credit

If you need short-term cash for seed, feed, or repairs, an operating loan offers structured repayment with a set end date. For flexible access to funds throughout the year, a line of credit lets you borrow only what you need, when you need it and pay interest on just that amount.

Managing Cash Flow Through the Seasons

Farm income doesn’t always line up with expenses. We can structure payments around harvest or milk check cycles to keep your finances steady even when markets fluctuate.

Staying Resilient in Challenging Years

Weather, yield, and price changes can make planning tough. That’s why we offer tools and refinancing options designed to ease pressure during low-revenue seasons; helping you stay focused on your business, not your bills.

Building a Long-Term Partnership

We’re not just here for one loan. Forward Bank supports your operation as it grows, from your first land purchase to succession planning. Our lenders know the local market and can connect you with FSA, WHEDA, and SBA programs as your needs evolve.

Agriculture and Farm Loan Programs Available

We offer a variety of loan programs designed to support farmers at every stage of their operation. From conventional financing to specialized programs, Forward Bank is here to provide the right financial solutions for your agricultural needs.

• Conventional Financing: Traditional financing options including term loans, lines of credit, construction loans, and access to local loan programs designed to meet the needs of producers.
• USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Loans: As a “standard eligible” lender, Forward Bank offers specialized loan options through the USDA to support farmers with affordable financing. We also partner with FSA to offer shared financing options, including beginning and young farmer program financing.
• Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA): WHEDA partners with local lenders and community groups to offer low-cost financing programs that support Wisconsin’s agricultural businesses.
• Credit Relief Outreach Program (CROP): A WHEDA-administered program that offers guaranteed agricultural production loans with lower interest rates, helping reduce risk for lenders and making it easier for farmers to secure working capital.
• Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA provides small businesses, including farms, with access to financing, counseling, and contracting expertise, helping them pursue growth and success.