What does USDA offer young people?
FSA offers youth loans that help young people fund agricultural projects connected to programs such as 4-H and FFA. The FSA youth loans page and USDA's youth page explain the purpose, who qualifies and how to apply. Age limits, amounts and terms are set by FSA, so check the official page.
For young adults who are ready to farm on their own, USDA programs for beginning farmers may apply instead.
Check whether your state has its own youth agriculture programs, since some counties and state agencies fund youth projects too.
How do youth loans work?
In general, a young person applies for a small loan to cover the costs of a project, such as raising livestock or growing a crop, and repays it from the proceeds. The project usually needs an adviser, such as a 4-H leader or an agriculture teacher, who supports the young person, and a parent or guardian may be involved in the paperwork.
The loan is a learning tool as much as a funding tool. Young borrowers keep records, make a plan, sell the product and repay, which mirrors how a real farm loan works.
Many young borrowers use a project to start building a credit record. Paying on time and keeping good records can help later, though each lender sets its own standards.
What should a young applicant prepare?
Planning is part of the exercise, so treat it as one.
- A description of the project and why you chose it
- A simple budget with expected costs and income
- A plan for how and where you will sell the product
- The name of the adviser who will supervise the project
- Records of past projects, if any
- Parent or guardian information if the office requires it
What comes after youth projects?
Young adults who want to farm full time can look at the beginning farmer options at FSA, conservation planning at NRCS and crop insurance. A history of managing a project and repaying a youth loan can be a useful part of an application story, though it does not guarantee approval.
Extension offices, young farmer groups and farm business programs offer training, mentoring and networks. The National Young Farmers Coalition publishes resources aimed at younger producers.
Think about short-term and long-term goals separately. A first project teaches skills, while a full farm plan answers bigger questions about land, equipment and income.
How can a young farmer get land and capital?
Land access is often the hardest part. Many young farmers lease first, work for another farm, or take over part of a family operation. Family transitions benefit from written agreements and advice from an attorney and a CPA.
Be careful about taking on debt before you have experience and a plan. A smaller start with room to learn is usually safer than a large one that depends on perfect conditions.
Ask older farmers whether they have equipment, land or advice to share. Many are glad to help someone who is serious about learning.
What should families know?
If a child is borrowing, parents or guardians may need to cosign or sign certain forms, and the agency can explain the exact requirements. Talk openly about who is responsible if the project does not pay off, and treat the loan as a real obligation. Keep project records separate from the family farm records so the numbers are clear.
Be honest about the time commitment. Animals and crops need care every day, and a project should fit with school, sports and family schedules.
Where do I start?
Call your local FSA office and ask about the youth loan program, then talk with your 4-H leader, FFA adviser or extension agent. If you are an adult beginner, begin with the new farmers page on Farmers.gov. Whatever your age, write down your goals and a simple budget first.
Many fairs and shows have rules about project records and animal care. Check them before you start so the project meets every requirement.
Key takeaways
- FSA youth loans help young people fund projects such as those in 4-H and FFA.
- Youth loans teach planning, recordkeeping and repayment, and require an adviser.
- Age limits and terms are set by FSA, so confirm them on the official page.
- Young adults can move to beginning farmer options when they are ready to farm on their own.
- Start small, keep records and get legal and tax advice for family transitions.
Sources and official links
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Money & Grants Editorial Team. Educational only, not tax, legal or financial advice. See our editorial policy.