MARBIDCO Loan Programs

Maryland Vineyard/Hopyard/Orchard Planting Loan Fund

Now includes financing for tree fruit orchards and hopyards

MARBIDCO provides moderate cost loans between $15,000 and $100,000 to finance the planting of fruit-bearing vines and trees or hops in order to increase the acreage of viable commercial vineyards, orchards, and hopyards in Maryland.

Minimum / Maximum Loan Amounts: $15,000 to $100,000 

Eligible Expenses: The requested financial assistance from MARBIDCO must relate to the installation of new vineyards, tree fruit orchards or hopyards including, but not limited to:

• Prepping of land for plant installation
• Purchase of vines or trees
• Equipment and supplies

The purchase of tractors, pick-up trucks, and wine-making equipment are not eligible for financing under this particular program, but are eligible for financing under other MARBIDCO programs including the MRBIFF Loan and Agri Business Equipment and Working Capital Loan Fund.

Application Submission Process

All applications must be originated by the applicant, Cooperative extension agents, Maryland Forest Service, county agricultural marketing officials, or other business professionals may assist in the development of applications.

Each loan application will be reviewed for financial viability by a panel of agricultural lenders at MARBIDCO, and operational, viticultural and/or enological viability by members of the wine/grape industry’s viticulture committee (or other appropriate university experts). MARBIDCO will make and service all loans, and all loans must be fully collateralized. Borrowers have some flexibility in choosing the loan repayment terms that best fits their needs.

Applications are reviewed as they are received and typically take 3-4 weeks to process. Applications that are submitted which are not complete will delay the review process.

Minimum / Maximum Loan Amounts: $15,000 to $100,000 

MARBIDCO Interest Rate:

• Option 1 -  5.00% on P&I for the first three years, then adjusting to 6.25% for the balance of the loan term.
• Option 2 – 6.25% during the entire term of the loan, but borrower may elect to make interest-only payments during the first 3 years.

Loan Origination Fee: 1% of loan amount  

Equity Requirement: Typically 10% of a project’s total cost, but grant funds can also qualify. 

Commercial Lender Participation (Required): A commercial lender must participate in the application process by providing a letter of referral.

Send Completed Applications to: MARBIDCO Loan Programs, c/o Brian Caddem1410 Forest Drive, Suite 21, Annapolis, MD 21403 or bcadden@marbidco.org and 410-267-6809.

This program is supported by the Maryland Wineries Association and the Maryland Grape Growers Association.

Read about a Vineyard/Hopyard/Orchard Planting Loan fund Program success story here.