The Carrot Project works at the forefront of change by helping to create a sustainable
local farm and food economy. Our work facilitates access to financing and business support so
that today’s small farm and food businesses can grow into thriving, enduring enterprises. We
make long-term investments in the building blocks of the food system that contribute to healthful food for consumers, a replenished environment, and strengthened regional and local economies.

We work with family farms that use sustainable growing methods, and food system
businesses that sell their products locally and regionally. Despite their strong skills as growers
and craftspeople, these farmers and food entrepreneurs face difficulties accessing capital. We
help them to understand their financial picture, and, when appropriate, apply for and manage
financial capital.

The Carrot Project administers four business technical assistance and regional loan
funds in New England and the Hudson Valley. We work with approximately 70 farm and food businesses per year, providing business support services and access to financing. Since 2009, our lending and loan packaging has totaled more than $1,000,000 to over 50 businesses. We work with four lending institutions and 37 investors to achieve these outcomes.

Working on the ground in multiple states gives us a unique perspective, which we use
to catalyze greater numbers of lenders and greater availability of financing devoted to small farm and food businesses. We accomplish these objectives through documenting lessons learned, collaborations, research, and trainings. We have advised, trained, and consulted with a range of entities as they consider entering the field and focusing their work within it. The Carrot Project supports the economic viability of farm and food businesses while increasing capacity and the availability of financing within the sector.

Read more about our programs.

Download our annual Impact Report, a story in graphic form of our organization and some of the amazing farm and food businesses with whom we work.

Impact Report 2016                 Impact Report 2015

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