Slow Money and Supporting Johnson's Backyard Garden

Update on our Slow Money Project

Thank you for your quick response to our Slow Money project! By partnering with JBG, you enable the farm to provide organic, sustainable vegetables to more and more residents of Austin. As of mid-February, we've raised nearly three-fourths of our goal!

JBG was recently approved for a $265,000 loan from Capital Farm Credit. This money will go directly toward the farm's expansion: we will purchase gently used tractors, washing equipment and other supplies for the River Road property. Of this $265,000, JBG is responsible for 30%, or $79,500. JBG is one of the first businesses in Austin to apply the Slow Money concept locally, asking lenders to contribute toward this down payment.

Making a loan to JBG is not only socially responsible, but it also makes good financial sense. The minimum loan amount is $5,000. In return, we offer monthly payments at 4% annual interest over 7 years.

If $5,000 isn't in your budget, there are other ways to help. We've gratefully received smaller, outright donations from some. Another contributor plans to owner-finance farm equipment directly to JBG. Those who make a loan or donate to JBG will see exactly how their money is used on the farm. As little as $25 buys rain boots for one employee, while $200 covers the cost of one week's supply of organic fertilizer.

When you offer your financial support to Johnson's Backyard Garden, you become a positive force in Austin's local food chain. You help ensure that some of Austin's last historic farmland is preserved and continues to be cultivated using sustainable methods.

We are excited to continue moving forward with you.

What is Slow Money?

You may have heard of slow money investing here and there. It's gaining popularity, especially among locavores and organic foodies. Slow Money is a new way of investing money. The creator, Woody Tasch, was inspired by the Slow Food Movement, so Slow Money encourages investment in small, sustainable enterprises, like local farms. In other words, slow money is an alternative to the light-speed pace and global reach of venture capitalism. Instead of investing in new technology in another country, you could invest in a sustainable business, right here in Austin. Slow Money investments are designed to help small businesses expand, supported by their own community. When we heard about Slow Money, it sounded just like what Johnson's Backyard Garden is doing now-- expanding with the help of its enthusiastic members-- and it may be just the strategy we need to get where we're going. Thanks, Woody. If you'd like to read more about Slow Money, visit www.slowmoneyalliance.org.

If you're interested in making a slow money loan to Johnson's Backyard Garden, or would like to learn more, please contact Carrie or Brenton at farm@jbgorganic.com or 512-386-5273.

If you are interested in a making a loan to Johnson's Backyard Garden, please contact Brenton or Carrie at farm@jbgorganic.com or 512-386-5273. Thank you for your support!