Published Sep 10, 2025

Support for Beginning Farmers Available through Savings Incentive Program
By Elizabeth Wilhelm
The two-year PFI program is now accepting applications

Contact: Elizabeth Wilhelm | Senior Media Relations Coordinator | (515) 232-5661 | elizabeth.wilhelm@practicalfarmers.org

AMES, Iowa (Sept. 10, 2025) — Beginning farmers seeking mentorship and support are encouraged to apply for Practical Farmers of Iowa’s Savings Incentive Program (SIP). This two-year program, which helps beginning farmers create successful farm businesses through mentorship, business support and financial support, is now accepting applications.

Since its launch in 2010, the program has supported 222 beginning farmers on their path to establishing a healthy farm business.

“SIP helped us think more deeply about our farm as a business,” says Carly Zierke, a past participant who farms in northeast Iowa. “We looked at our plan, the tools, and the financing that would help us reach our goals. We also got a mentor, an experienced farmer in our area, who came to see the farm, and helped us identify gaps and workable solutions.”

Program participants can expect:

  • Mentorship from experienced farmers
  • Business plan support
  • Opportunities to save money and receive matching funds
  • Opportunities to attend learning events
  • Access to a network of supportive peers

After 24 months and completion of all program requirements, participants earn a dollar-for-dollar match on money saved up to $2,400, for a possible $4,800 they may use to purchase a farm asset.

“Beginning farmers face many unique challenges, and limited access to capital is one of the biggest,” says Savanah Laur, PFI’s business development viability manager. “This program helps farmers tackle that challenge, and so far, participants have been able to purchase over $570,000 in essential farm assets after completing the program.”

Those enrolled in the program will start in December 2025 and be part of the SIP Class of 2027.

Applications are due Oct. 24. Full details and the application form are available here.

For questions, to check eligibility or for help getting signed up, farmers should contact Savanah Laur at (515) 232-5661 or savanah.laur@practicalfarmers.org.

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About Practical Farmers: Practical Farmers of Iowa is a nonprofit with more than 8,000 members that equips farmers to build resilient farms and communities. We create learning opportunities via farmer-led events, on-farm research and educational content through our robust network of farmers. We also provide funding and technical assistance thelp farmers adopt regenerative farming practices and grow farm businesses. Our vision is an Iowa with healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities. To learn more, visit http://practicalfarmers.org.