The cheese aging room at an artisan creamery. Photo courtesy of Jasper Hill Farm.

Whole Foods Market believes in supporting local farmers and producers. The company’s Local Producer Loan Program provides low-interest loans from $1,000 to $100,000 to small, local producers, to help bring more local products to market. The money can be for things like purchasing more animals, investing in new equipment or converting to organic production. Through the program, the fees, interest rates and paperwork that can often get in the way of a small local farm or business taking the next step to expand its operations, are minimized.

Food artisans from ranchers and beekeepers to ice cream makers and bakers have taken advantage of the program. If you are a local producer yourself, learn more.