Youth Loans are designed to support young individuals in pursuing agricultural projects that generate income and promote hands-on learning in farming, ranching, and agricultural business management. Administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), these loans help youth acquire practical experience and knowledge in agriculture, while encouraging the next generation of farmers and ranchers.

Program Features:

• Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents between the ages of 10 and 20, participate in an approved agricultural youth organization, and demonstrate the ability to manage and carry out their project.
• Loan Purposes: Funds can be used to buy livestock, seed, equipment, and supplies, purchase, rent, or repair tools and equipment, and pay operating expenses for the project.
• Loan Amounts: Up to $5,000 per eligible applicant.
• Interest Rates: Competitive interest rates set by the FSA.
• Repayment Terms: Typically structured to match the project’s income stream, with terms up to 7 years.

How to Enroll: To apply for a Youth Loan, applicants must submit a loan application to their local FSA office. The application must include a detailed project plan, the approval and support of a project advisor (such as a 4-H club leader, FFA advisor, or other organizational leader), and evidence of the applicant’s ability to successfully complete the project. Detailed enrollment instructions and deadlines are available through the local FSA office or the official USDA website.

Eligibility: Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 10 to 20 who are participating in an approved agricultural youth organization. Applicants must demonstrate the capability to plan, manage, and complete the agricultural project and have the support of a project advisor.

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While FSA is committed to serving all farmers and ranchers, by statute, FSA targets a portion of all Youth loans to historically underserved farmers and ranchers, which include:

• Women
• African-Americans
• Alaskan Natives
• American Indians
• Hispanics
• Asians
• Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

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