Ag-LINK

Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague recently announced important updates to the long-standing and recently revamped Ag-LINK program.

As part of House Bill 440, recent legislation passed to advance the Ohio Gains initiative, agricultural cooperatives have been added as eligible Ag-LINK borrowers for the first time in the program’s history. Programmatic and loan caps also have been removed from statute to ensure the program keeps pace with changing economic conditions.

Earlier this year, it was announced that for the first time ever, applications will be accepted year-round to provide borrowers with greater flexibility and access to lower-cost capital when they need it most.

“For decades, Ag-LINK has supported Ohio farmers by driving down the cost of doing business,” Sprague said. “As they face new challenges caused by crippling inflation and massive supply chain issues, we’ve taken Ag-LINK to the next level to better meet their needs. We’re proud to make these much-needed improvements at this critical time and serve the Buckeye State’s next generation of farmers.”

In the first quarter of 2022, Ag-LINK:
  • Supported 530 loans to Ohio agricultural businesses across 54 counties totaling more than $103 million.
  • Saved Ohio agricultural businesses at least $518,453 (based on the first quarter minimum loan discount of .50%).

The Ohio Treasurer’s office administers the Ag-LINK program to help farm operators, agribusinesses, and now agricultural co-ops, finance the upfront operating costs for feed, seed, fertilizer, fuel, equipment and other costs.

Those interested in Ag-LINK should contact their financial institution to begin the online loan application process.

New and beginning farmers
My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

Darke County Farm Bureau

Growing Tomorrow Grant
We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
Nathan and Jill Parriman's avatar
Nathan and Jill Parriman

Clermont County Farm Bureau

Bringing the farm back to life
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Gretchan Francis's avatar
Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

Youth pathways in Farm Bureau
It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

Clinton County Farm Bureau

Giving farmers a voice
The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Select Partner Program
Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

Advocacy
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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