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Treasurer Sprague Opens Ag-LINK Program for 2021 Growing Season

COLUMBUS – To help Ohio farmers and agribusinesses finance the up-front costs of this year’s growing season, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague today opened the 2021 Ag-LINK application period. The application period will remain open through March 19. 


“A thriving agriculture sector is a critical component of our state’s overall prosperity, and I’m committed to supporting Ohio’s farmers and agribusinesses,” said Treasurer Sprague. “By making capital more affordable through interest rate reductions, Ag-LINK helps to alleviate some of the financial pressure faced at the beginning of each year’s growing season.”

Through this application period, farm operators and agribusiness owners based in Ohio can receive an interest rate reduction on loans up to $150,000. Although the exact amount of the discount will be provided to lenders in late March, a minimum one percent discount is in place.

The Ohio Treasurer’s office administers the Ag-LINK program to help Ohio farm operators and other agricultural businesses finance the up-front operating costs for feed, seed, fertilizer, fuel, and other costs. Ag-LINK provides an interest rate reduction on agriculture business operation loans at eligible banks, credit unions, and farm credit lenders.

Eligible farm operators and agribusinesses:

  • Must be organized for profit;
  • Must have headquarters and 51% of operations maintained in Ohio;
  • Must use the loan exclusively for agricultural purposes; and
  • Must agree to comply with all program and financial institution regulations.

Ag-LINK has been supporting Ohio’s farm community since 1986. In fiscal year 2020, the Treasurer’s office helped 822 farmers and agribusinesses lower their interest rates for new loans totaling $91 million.

Those interested in Ag-LINK should contact their ag-lender to begin the online loan application process. More information on the Ag-LINK program can be found online here. 

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Robert Sprague became Ohio’s 49th Treasurer of State on January 14, 2019, bringing to the office his extensive experience working on financial matters in both the public and private sectors. Under Treasurer Sprague’s direction, the office manages the state’s $29 billion investment and $11 billion debt portfolios, collects and deposits all state revenues, and oversees custodial assets.