Agriculture Loan and Loan Guarantees

Access to capital can be one of the biggest hurdles when starting or expanding a farming operation, especially in the early years. For agricultural entrepreneurs in New Brunswick, the Agriculture Loan and Loan Guarantees program offers a practical financing option when traditional lenders can’t cover the full scope of a viable project. Delivered through the provincial Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries, this initiative is designed to work alongside private financing, helping bridge funding gaps so promising farm businesses can move forward.

The program supports a range of agricultural investments, from launching a new farm or taking over an existing operation to buying farmland, developing agricultural property, or acquiring shares in a farm business. Rather than offering grants, the department provides repayable loans or backs loans through guarantees, with terms tailored to the project’s cash flow and long-term viability. Newer farmers may benefit from more flexible conditions, recognizing the challenges faced by those early in their farming careers, while established operators can use the program to support succession planning or strategic growth.

Because each project is assessed individually, financing structures, interest rates, and repayment schedules can vary based on the business plan and overall risk profile. For farmers in New Brunswick considering a major investment or transition, learning more about how this program fits alongside private financing can help determine whether it’s the right tool for your operation’s next step.