Local Producer Loan Program

Whole Foods Market's Local Producer Loan Program (LPLP) provides up to $10 million in low-interest loans to small, local producers. Why? Because we believe in supporting local farmers and producers. We want to make it easier for them to grow their businesses and bring more local products to market. That’s good for us and it’s good for you.

Loans range from $1,000 to $100,000 and can be for things like purchasing more animals, investing in new equipment or converting to organic production. We minimize the fees, interest rates and paperwork that can often get in the way of a small local farm or business taking the next step to expand its operations.

Check out the stories of our current loan recipients. From ranchers and beekeepers to ice cream makers and bakers, they all have wonderfully unique experiences to share. And if you are a local producer yourself, check out the information provided here about applying for a loan to help your business.

Featured Loan Recipient

Coracao Confections

El Cerrito, CA

Daniel Korson and Matthew Rogers, two young entrepreneurs from the Bay Area, recently started Coracao Confections, a line of raw, organic versions of popular chocolates. Both Dan and Matthew have culinary training, and Matthew has been with the raw, vegan restaurant Café Gratitude since 2004. He has specialized in raw desserts and has been teaching classes on them since 2006.

Coracao is the first true start-up to receive a Local Producer Loan. Daniel and Matthew will be using the loan funds to purchase ingredients and chocolate-making equipment, including a mixer, a heat sealer, and chocolate cases for use in our stores.

Back to the top of the page