AgCredit Distributes $22.6M in Patronage Dividends

Ohio cooperative returns funds to member-owners for 39th consecutive year

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:26pm

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AgCredit, a farmer-owned cooperative serving 18 counties in Northwestern Ohio, has announced the distribution of $22.6 million in patronage dividends to its members. The payout marks the 39th consecutive year the organization has returned a portion of its net earnings to its member-borrowers.

Why it matters

The patronage program is a key benefit of AgCredit's cooperative structure, allowing the organization and its members to support each other's financial health. This annual dividend provides a tangible financial boost to local farmers, especially during challenging economic times.

The details

AgCredit highlighted the patronage program at recent open houses, with members receiving hard-copy checks or direct ACH deposits. Beyond the annual dividends, the cooperative also offers its 'AgLink' loan program, which provides reduced, fixed interest rates on operating notes through the State of Ohio. Additionally, AgCredit continues to focus on assisting the next generation of agriculturalists through its 'Young, Beginning, and Small Farmer' program.

  • AgCredit has distributed patronage dividends for 39 consecutive years.
  • The latest $22.6 million payout was celebrated with local open houses last week.

The players

AgCredit

A farmer-owned cooperative serving 18 counties in Northwestern Ohio, providing financing and other services to the regional agricultural community.

Ashley Lutz

A representative from AgCredit who highlighted the cooperative's commitment to its member-owners during a recent update.

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What they’re saying

“We like giving money back to our members”

— Ashley Lutz, AgCredit Representative

What’s next

AgCredit will continue to focus on its patronage program, 'AgLink' loan offerings, and initiatives to support young, beginning, and small farmers in the region.

The takeaway

AgCredit's long-standing commitment to returning profits to its member-owners through an annual patronage dividend program demonstrates the cooperative's dedication to supporting the financial well-being of local farmers and the broader agricultural community.