Our Family Farms is building out pasture infrastructure to regeneratively graze cattle and launch a low-input, direct-to-consumer beef brand.
Funded on 06/29/2021
To generate sustainable income while he builds his own herd and business, Frank Smith manages 100 head of cattle on his pasture for a neighboring partner. These animals have a guaranteed market, and at harvest (summer 2022 and spring 2023), Frank will receive a majority cut of the sales profit. During this time, the increase of Frank’s personal herd—currently 10 cattle—will establish the long-term foundation of his direct-to-consumer, grass-fed beef brand: Our Family Farms.
Letting cows graze is easy, but holistic pasture management requires planning, intention, and the right tools. Frank and the Our Family Farms team will use their loan from Steward to establish rotational grazing infrastructure: paddock fencing for rotating pastures, shade and misting systems to provide relief from the summer heat, and seed for diversifying forage. Capital will also be used to purchase additional animals and cover veterinary expenses so the Our Family Farms herd can stay in tip-top shape as it grows for the future.
Frank’s drive to innovate is displayed through his creative approach to holistic management and regenerative grazing techniques:
Thank everyone for your support of are regenerative agricultural venture. We look forward to taking it to the next level.
This loan will be made to Our Family Farms, a Virginia limited liability company, which grows and sells pasture-based beef.
This loan will fund the purchase of the start of a new herd, support pasture infrastructure, and convert a trailer into a refrigeration unit, allowing Our Family Farms to address the unmet market demand for low-input beef.
The total loan amount is $46,000 which will assist Our Family Farms in growing and expanding their business.
This loan is set at a 9% interest rate, with a 60-month term, and fully amortized monthly payments beginning in 12 months after funds are disbursed.
Pasture Infrastructure - $12,500: This includes fencing, portable water, and shade.
Cattle - $12,500: This includes steers to start the Our Family Farms herd.
Operating expenses - $15,000: This includes daily operating expenses such as vet costs, converting a trailer into a refrigeration unit for deliveries, and ATVs for transportation on the pasture.
Land lease - $6,000: Our Family Farms will be leasing 200 acres of land to establish their farm.
Total Budget: $46,000
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