Applicants sought for interest-free organic farming loans

Interest-free and unsecured loans of up to £25,000 are being offered to support organic and agroecological farming systems, drawn from a financial bequest made by an advocate of organic agriculture.

Over the past 12 months, the Dean Organic Fund has supported various businesses, including a regenerative farm in Northern Ireland, where new entrant tenants are managing priority habitat with grazing strategies that encourage wildlife and soil activity.

See also: Defra minister visits Riverford farm amid organic growth talks

Seaview Farms used the fund to buy specialist native cattle, allowing them to better utilise their grazing platform to create a more resilient and balanced system.

The fund has also enabled other businesses to buy grain bi-cropping processing facilities, acquire mobile hen houses, and expand market gardens.

The loans, which have to be paid back within five years, form part of a £500,000 bequest made by Jennie Bone to the Organic Research Centre, which is now seeking new applicants to add to the 22 businesses that have already been supported.

Chris Jones, adviser to the Dean Organic Fund, said: “After a successful 2025, we are looking to extend the reach of this legacy and work with more growers and farmers.

“This is a rare opportunity to secure financial support, and for the right candidates, it can really make the difference in giving businesses the step-up needed.”

Applications, which will be considered on a first-come first served basis, should be submitted to the Progressive Farming Trust.