New funding expands farmer financing access and supports transitions
Farm Lending Canada (FLC) has received a strategic investment from Farm Credit Canada (FCC) to improve access to financing for farmers across Canada. This investment forms part of FCC’s broader plan to invest $2 billion in the agriculture and food sector by the year 2030.
The funding aims to support innovation and strengthen food security while helping farmers manage key challenges such as farm transition and succession. These challenges are important for ensuring the long-term sustainability of family farms in Canada.
"We are proud to receive this strategic investment from FCC at a time when Canadian farmers need our help more than ever. The changing global landscape has put a great deal of stress on the men and women who put food on our tables," said Robb Nelson, Chief Executive Officer of FLC.
"We are here for them now and will continue to be a source of capital for them in the future. With this capital, we will now be able to expand our existing loan portfolio and increase our ability to help Canadian farmers," said Nelson.
Founded in 2019, Farm Lending Canada provides financial support to farming operations across several provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, among others.
The organization focuses on helping farmers who may not qualify for traditional lending options. Since its establishment, FLC has supported more than 100 farming families with loans averaging over $2 million.
FLC works closely with farmers to strengthen their financial positions and help them transition back to conventional lending systems. The organization also provides expert guidance to ensure farmers manage their debt and improve business performance.
"Our strong Canadian agriculture sector depends on farmers having reliable access to capital to support growth, manage transition and navigate change," said Adam Smalley, Managing Director, FCC Capital.
"Partnerships like this help more producers get access to the capital they need to transition their operations and reflect the importance of working together to support the people building the agriculture and food sector," said Smalley.
The new investment will also support FLC’s plans to raise an additional $200 million over the next 18 months. This effort aims to further expand financial support for farming families and ensure they have the resources needed to succeed.
Photo Credit: Farm Lending Canada-logo