Livestock Incentive Loan Program

Access to capital can be a major hurdle for farmers looking to expand or stabilize their herds, especially when lenders are cautious about agricultural risk. In New Brunswick, the Livestock Incentive Loan Program helps address this challenge by making it easier for farmers to secure financing when purchasing livestock. Delivered by the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries, the program supports agricultural businesses across the province by backing loans used to buy and raise eligible animals, giving lenders added confidence to approve financing.

Rather than providing direct grants, this initiative works through participating financial institutions by guaranteeing a significant portion of approved loans, with financing generally available up to about $75,000 depending on the project. This structure can be particularly helpful for both full-time and part-time farmers who are investing in feeder or breeding livestock as part of a viable business plan. By reducing lender risk, the program can lead to more accessible loan terms and help farms move forward with herd expansion, productivity improvements, or longer-term breeding strategies.

The Livestock Incentive Loan Program is geared toward agricultural operations that demonstrate sound management and a clear market for their products, and it is typically available on an ongoing basis. For New Brunswick farmers considering livestock investments and wanting to understand how this loan guarantee could support their plans, reviewing the full program details can help determine whether it’s the right financial tool for their operation.