The Proofing Station

The Proofing Station

How it Works

This non-profit initiative provides technical assistance and flexible financing options through farm credit to community development financing institutions for small- and mid-sized food and agriculture businesses. Businesses interested in learning more should complete an intake form on their website.

Funding Focuses On

The Proofing Station offers financial products to increase access to capital for small- and mid-sized food and agriculture businesses in the Midwest. The program has four main focus areas:

  • Engage excluded market players
  • Increase access to land and real assets
  • Expand infrastructure across the region
  • Advance sustainable cultivation

Funding Limit

$1,000,000

Qualifications

Production, processing, storage, logistics, and retail-type food and farm businesses who fit the mission of the Proofing Station (increasing ecological sustainability, social and racial equity, and economic resilience) and help the organization meet its social impact goals.

Financing Geographic Area 

Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin 

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  • crfs funding sources directory,
  • center for regional food systems

Center for Regional Food Systems

Food System Infrastructure, Planning and Policy

Michigan Good Food

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