Borrowing Criteria
What does the Steward loan process involve?
The Steward Borrower Process. Apply Complete the online loan application, telling us more about your business and financial needs. Approval Work with the Steward team to confirm loan terms and plan f…
Does Steward work with beginning farmers and ranchers?
In order to be eligible for a Steward loan, your project must be self-sustaining and environmentally regenerative. Additionally, Steward prioritizes agricultural businesses with at least $10,000 in a…
How does Steward assess animal welfare in farming projects?
Steward bases our assessment of animal welfare based on the adherence to the Five Freedoms for animal welfare, humane handling and housing practices, veterinary involvement, responsible antibiotic us…
Why partner with Steward versus raising capital independently?
Farm businesses choose to partner with Steward because our loan process is specifically designed to streamline getting farmers access to the capital they need to grow. We facilitate and deliver capit…
How does the Stewardship Standard relate to sustainable and regenerative agriculture?
Our Stewardship Standard. This document outlines the key principles of stewardship that all borrowers must commit to in order to receive financing from Steward. At the core of these principles are th…
What kind of agriculture businesses does Steward work with?
Regenerative agriculture businesses that produce or raise food, commodities, or other agricultural products of high economic importance for direct sale. This includes but is not limited to: Diversifi…
Am I eligible for a Steward loan?
Regenerative & Sustainable Agriculture Business: Applicant businesses should use regenerative and/or environmentally sustainable practices in their agricultural production, sourcing, and supply chain…
Can I use a Steward loan to purchase land?
If you don't yet own your land, then you can still apply for a loan from Steward! Several past projects we've funded have used their loan from Steward to secure permanent land tenancy after managing…
