Interest-free, unsecured loans of up to £25,000 will be available for organic and ecological farmers following the relaunch of the Dean Organic Fund.
Run by the Organic Research Centre, the fund was established by Jennie Bone, who wanted to create a legacy for conservation.
The loans are available to small or start-up businesses, notes Chris Jones, advisor to the Fund. Terms range from two to five years, with loans from £5,000.
“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.”
The fund has supported nearly 50 businesses, ranging from market gardens to a pop-up organic shop.
Sally Hempsell received £25,000 to invest in cattle and a four-wheel drive vehicle to move them between sites as part of a conservation grazing business in the northwest of England.
“Farming and food production can work alongside the conservation of special habitats and biodiversity,” she says. “The loan was instrumental in allowing me to set up the business.”
Chris adds that the loan terms are moulded to suit business requirements and realistic repayment terms. “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.
“Applicants will preferably be certified organic producers or in conversion, but otherwise should follow practices closely aligned to organic principles,” he concludes. “This really is a golden opportunity for businesses exploring, innovating or expanding in the organic sector.”
For more information go to www.organicresearchcentre.com