Credit used for innovative stables

For the first time, a farmer receives money from the guarantee loan (BL Plus Agricultural Innovation). The credit has been in existence since the beginning of 2017. The government guarantees part of the investment. 

The guarantee credit (BL Plus Agricultural Innovation) can be provided for agricultural entrepreneurs who want to invest in a new market concept, product or production process. This investment must be aimed at making production more sustainable, which goes beyond the legal standards. The product must also be marketed in a distinctive way.

The Ten Have-Mellema family has a pig farm in Bertha (Groningen). They are the first entrepreneurs to use the guarantee loan. They are building a frisky stable with an outside run for the Hamletz pig. Rabobank finances the stable.

Annechien ten Have explains in the press release what she will spend the granted credit on. "We are going to put a new pork brand on the market. We are happy with this arrangement. The guarantee arrangement helps in the realization of getting tastier meat with more animal welfare stars on the shelves."

Guarantee credit Plus Agriculture
The guarantee credit was opened for the first time from 1 January 2017. The commission is one-off 3% of the loan. A commission of 1% applies to starters and/or acquirers. The maximum credit is €2,5 million.

The ministry guarantees 70% of the company financing, which is not replaced by any security. Banks are more likely to issue financing when the government (partly) guarantees.

Companies are eligible when:
- At least 50% of the investments are sustainable and environmentally friendly;
- Livestock farms invest in a barn that meets the requirements of the Sustainable Livestock Farming Standard.

Ruud Huirne, director of Food & Agri at Rabobank Nederland, speaks at the National Economic Agriculture Congress, organized by Boerenbusiness. Register now for this conference.

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