The Department of Agriculture (DA) offers various loan programs to support farmers, fisherfolk, and agripreneurs in improving their productivity and ensuring food security. If you’re looking for financial assistance to start or expand your agricultural venture, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for DA loans.
1. Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF) Lending Program
The ACEF Lending Program provides credit assistance to farmers, fisherfolk, cooperatives, and small enterprises to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
Eligibility:
- Individual farmers and fisherfolk
- Micro and small enterprises
- Cooperatives and associations
Loan Amount:
- Up to PHP 5 million for cooperatives and enterprises
- Up to PHP 1 million for individual farmers and fisherfolk
How to Apply:
- Gather necessary documents such as loan applications, business permits, and financial statements.
- Submit the application to the designated lending institution managing the program.
2. Agri-Negosyo (ANYO) Loan Program
This Agri-Negosyo (ANYO) Loan Program provides financial support for the production, processing, marketing, and distribution of agricultural and fishery products.
Eligibility:
- Registered small farmers and fisherfolk
- Micro and small agribusiness enterprises
- Farmer and fisherfolk cooperatives and associations
Loan Amount:
- Up to PHP 15 million for enterprises
- Up to PHP 300,000 for individual borrowers
How to Apply:
- Identify partner lending conduits such as cooperatives and rural banks.
- Prepare necessary documents including identification, financial records, and project proposals.
- Submit applications for evaluation.
3. Survival and Recovery (SURE) Assistance Program
Designed for small farmers and fisherfolk affected by natural disasters, the Survival and Recovery (SURE) Assistance Program provides emergency and rehabilitation loans.
Eligibility:
- Farmers and fisherfolk registered under the agricultural sector
- Those affected by natural calamities and disasters
How to Apply:
- Contact the local government unit (LGU) to check eligibility.
- Prepare documents such as proof of identity, farming/fishing activity, and certification of calamity damage.
- Submit applications to accredited financial institutions.
4. Kapital Access for Young Agripreneurs (KAYA) Loan Program
The Kapital Access for Young Agripreneurs (KAYA) Loan Program encourages young entrepreneurs to engage in agriculture by providing capital for agribusiness projects.
Eligibility:
- Individuals aged 18-30 engaged in agri-fishery activities
How to Apply:
- Develop a business proposal outlining objectives, methods, and financial projections.
- Submit applications with required documents, such as proof of age and business registration.
General Steps to Apply for DA Loans
- Determine Eligibility – Choose the loan program that best fits your needs.
- Prepare Documents – Gather identification, business permits, financial records, and project proposals.
- Submit Application – Depending on the program, applications should be submitted to the DA, partner banks, or lending institutions.
- Evaluation Process – The lending institution will review your application and may request additional information.
- Loan Approval & Release – Once approved, comply with loan conditions, and funds will be disbursed accordingly.
By taking advantage of these DA loan programs, Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, and agripreneurs can access financial resources to grow their businesses and contribute to the agricultural sector’s development.