VCLF's Agritourism Loan Program is a revolving loan fund where you may access financing of up to $50,000 at low interest rates. The program focuses on supporting new or existing agricultural enterprises by providing low cost capital for agritourism related projects that help them enhance and diversify their revenue streams.

Eligibility

• Agritourism businesses must be owned and operated by Vermont farmers.
• Your business must support agritourism endeavors on Vermont’s farms.
• You must provide goods and services directly to consumers.
• The majority of gross household income must come from agricultural related sources.
• Your business must be 51% or more owned by US citizens or legal, permanent residents.

Acceptible Uses

• Projects enhancing on-farm experiences and/or encouraging people visit farms.
• Projects related to increase the safety for guests on farms.
• On-farm and community infrastructure specific to agritourism enterprises: parking, restrooms, accessibility, education, electronic technologies, signage and aesthetics.

Rates and Terms

Terms range from several months to 20 years, are project specific and based on the project need and strength of the proposal. Fixed interest rates of between 3%-5% depending on purpose of the loan and strenth of the application.

A $50 application fee is due at the time the loan request is submitted.  An origination fee of 1% of the loan amount, a $125 documentation fee and associated filing fees are due upon closing.  In some cases, origination and closing fees may be financed.

What if my project has other financing needs?

If your project is greater than $50,000 or is ineligible for Agritourism funding, VCLF also has loan funds available at slightly higher interest rates (currently 7% for general agricultural purposes).

How to Apply

We encourage you to speak to a loan officer before submitting a loan application.  

Please contact Cindy Houston, Micro-Loan and Grant Porfolio Manager, at (802) 223-4424, or at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   for more information.