Permaculture Guild

Farmers Micro Loan Fund

Permaculture farmers are incredibly dedicated to producing and distributing healthy, natural foods to their local communities. Their work provides many health benefits to those who use their products.

Yet these dedicated men and women often face difficult hurdles that result from unpredictable wealthier events, the economy, and their need to keep equipment up to date. In many cases, just a small loan at a low rate of interest can give them the resources they need to plant more acreage or new crops, raise different livestock, or repair or buy equipment.

In 2009, the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market Institute started a pilot program providing micro-loans to farmers. Donated funds were deposited with the Permaculture Credit Union (PCU) and used as collateral for very low-interest loans.

In less than a year, close to $75,000 was loaned to members of the Santa Fe Farmers Market, allowing them to sustain and grow their farms. As a result of the success of this program, the PCU received many inquiries about implementing similar programs in other communities.

To fill this need, the Permaculture Guild was formed as a 501(c)(3), making it possible to expand the loan program to other areas of New Mexico, and eventually other regions in the United States. Now people who want to help support the permaculture community can do so through the Permaculture Guild — with the assurance that their donations will be effectively managed by the PCU.