2022 Microloan Recipients

In partnership with Crosshatch Center and Grain Train Natural Foods Markets, Oryana offers annual zero interest loans to innovative farmers and food producers in our area. This year we offered funds to four worthy endeavors.

Bluebird Farm & Gardens

Bluebird Farm & Gardens in Empire received $5,600 for walk-in coolers, allowing them the flexibility to harvest on a larger scale, to take control of product quality, reduce loss, and increase profitability. Previously the farm had to harvest immediately before market, working very long/late hours.

Heartwood Forest Farm

Heartwood Forest Farm in Cedar, specialty organic growers of farm-cultivated culinary and medicinal herbs, was awarded $4,000 to purchase equipment for a licensed commercial kitchen, which when complete, will allow the production organic herb products for both wholesale and online sales.

The Berryman Farm

The Berryman Farm was awarded $850 to purchase gardening equipment in order to expand the variety of foods to be used  for a series of cooking classes for members of the Grand Traverse Band, taught by Darylin Berryman. In honor of the family name, the farm is planning to grow more berries, among other foods native to the tribe.

Infinity Micro Farm

Infinity Micro Farm in Falmouth was awarded $2,520 for a walk-in cooler to support growth of their CSA program in Missaukee County. As the business has thrived, they outgrew their current walk-in cooler. A larger cooler will increase their productivity and effectiveness to provide fresh produce to their CSA members and the community.