Agritourism Program

What is the VCLF Agritourism program?

The Agritourism 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.

What is VCLF?

The Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF) is a statewide nonprofit community development financial institution founded in 1987 to help provide access to capital.  VCLF provides business loans to low and moderate-income entrepreneurs who are unable to obtain financing from traditional sources.

Am I eligible?

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

What is it for?

• 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.   

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.

How do I apply?

Contact VCLF for more information at:
(802) 223-1448 or www.vclf.org

What are the fees:

• A $50 application fee 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.
• The 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 funds, VCLF also has loan funds available at slightly higher interest rates (currently 7% for general agricultural purposes.)