The Carrot Project
The Carrot Project offers one-on-one business assistance aimed at helping farmers and food business owners achieve greater financial management expertise and confidence in making business decisions which lead to long-term business success. Services may be free or cost-shared depending on location and household income.
They serve farmers, fishers, and food entrepreneurs who are based in MA, RI, CT, NH, and ME who use sustainable methods and sell some or all of their products locally or regionally.
One-on-One Coaching & Business Consulting
The Carrot Project offers one-on-one coaching and business consulting aimed at helping farmers and food business owners achieve greater financial management expertise and confidence in making business decisions, which lead to long-term business success. Services may be free or cost-shared depending on location and household income.
Loan Programs
The Carrot Project’s loan programs are available for businesses in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Maine. Capital or operating loans of $5,000-$250,000 are available to farm, forestry and fishery businesses, and to processing, distribution and storage enterprises that use any type of local agricultural product.
Loans are available for businesses that may not be able to obtain financing elsewhere, including startups and farms in the first few years of operation. Those who already have a business plan are ideally suited to apply. They offer guidance on when and how to apply for financing, as well as assistance with loan applications.
Trainings and Workshops
The Carrot Project offers hands-on, skills-based training and workshops targeted to local farm and food producers. Their focus is on bookkeeping and financial management skills necessary to make your business thrive. Most workshops run during New England’s agricultural “off season” of late October through March.
Fishers, aquaculturists, and small processors using local farm and sea ingredients are always welcome and encouraged to attend.