Standing Behind Beginning and Young Farmers

Equipping the next generation of beginning farmers with the production agriculture resources and financial skills they need to find success and passion in the industry.

Empowering Young Farmers with Resources and Connections

Through partnerships with organizations like Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers and Black Soil Kentucky, we provide unparalleled support and opportunities. These collaborations offer young farmers invaluable networking and educational opportunities, connecting them with industry leaders, mentors, and peers. Our programs include workshops, seminars, and hands-on training sessions, empowering young farmers with the knowledge and connections they need to thrive in the agricultural sector.

Helping Them Take the Next Step

Forward Thinker Award

The Forward Thinker award is a self-nominated award designed to recognize and showcase the extraordinary efforts of young and beginning farmers who are blazing the path for the next generation of agriculture. Applicants for this award will be judged on their leadership, involvement, goals and how they implement unique practices to drive their operation forward.

Man and woman stand in the middle of a broiler house.

Growing Forward

The Growing Forward^® program offers young and first-time farmers the loan and financing options, financial education, and support they need to build a thriving operation.

Stories of Impact

Feb 4, 2025 – Community News

Innovative Dairy Farming: Emily's Journey to Modernize and Inspire

Okeana dairy farmer is advancing the industry and advocating for ag.

Sep 30, 2024 – Cooperative Stories

Making a Childhood Poem a Reality

Jordan's third-generation family farm is a key part of his “simple, yet rewarding life.”

Aug 19, 2024 – Community News

A Student’s Journey to the World of Agriculture and Farm Credit Mid-America

Fort Valley State University student, Jonathan Allen, finds his place in the world of agriculture through Farm Credit Mid-America.

Brandon Henning, a young farmer from Kentucky

Jun 28, 2024 – Cooperative Stories

Cultivating the Family Farm With Growing Forward

Brandon Henning, a young farmer from Kentucky, continues the family tradition while preparing for the farm’s future.

May 7, 2024 – Cooperative Stories

Finding Purpose in the Challenges of Farming

After beginning his career in engineering, Devin Leas discovered his true dream was to become a full-time farmer.

With a first-time farmer loan, Tom McDow gains the tools to grow his farming operation.

Apr 16, 2024 – Cooperative Stories

First-Time Farmer Loans: Growing Forward Makes a Difference for Young Farmer

Young farmer Tom gains the tools to grow his operation with the help of Farm Credit Mid-America’s Growing Forward Program that offers First-Time Farmer Loans and other benefits.