“Farm Credit East is looking forward to working with the Community Loan Fund to help more farm and food businesses get started and succeed,” said Henry Huntington, Farm Credit East director, from Loudon, N.H.

“It’s a natural partnership because both organizations work with their borrowers to help them develop strong management capacity and financial systems,” said David Bishop, branch manager of Farm Credit East’s Bedford, N.H. office.

Both Farm Credit East and the Community Loan Fund provide business financing, refer business to one another and collaboratively work to find the best financing solutions for local businesses.

As part of their agreement, Farm Credit East will provide a $20,000 grant to help the Farm Food Initiative reach more early-stage farm and food businesses. This Initiative connects business borrowers and prospects with expertise in business planning, record-keeping and financial management. It also helps food producers to identify new markets and determine which of their products are most profitable or have the most potential.

“Many businesses have growth potential, but they often need customized one-on-one assistance,” said John Hamilton, the Community Loan Fund’s Vice President for Economic Opportunity. “This grant opportunity will help support their effort.”

Owners or managers of farm or fishery businesses in New Hampshire who are interested in financing and technical assistance should contact Farm Credit East at FarmCreditEast.com or (603) 472-3554, or call Charlene Andersen at the Community Loan Fund at (603) 856-0773.