Originally published in Heartbeat Magazine Fall 2025.
Your go-to resource for navigating agriculture’s financial landscape where our knowledgeable FCS Financial staff addresses some common questions from our members.
Could you tell me about FCS Financials’ loan programs and products specifically designed to help young, beginning farmers finance their very first purchase of breeding livestock, such as a cow herd?
Zach Trout, Financial Services Officer, Ag & Rural Lending, Chillicothe
FCS Financial offers specialized programs designed to help young and beginning farmers enter and grow in the agricultural sector. We understand the common challenges, such as limited cash on hand or building equity, and our solutions are built to address them.
Our Connect program is specifically for Missouri’s young or beginning farmers, defined as those 35 years of age and under or with 10 years or less of production agriculture experience.
Within Connect, our Foundation Loan option is designed for those looking to make their very first livestock or machinery purchase. This product offers flexible repayment terms up to seven years, with a potential 12-month, interest-only period to help manage early cash flow and allow your operation to grow before more demanding repayment terms begin. A significant benefit of the Foundation Loan is that it offers up to 100% financing on first-time investments, helping overcome the initial financial hurdle of equity or cash requirements. We also adjust our credit standards for Connect members, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by operations early in their careers.
Most importantly, open and consistent communication with your loan officer is essential. Our team members have deep roots in farming and rural living, allowing them to offer practical and informed guidance to help position your operation for growth and introduce solutions as new opportunities arise.
