This is Compeer Financial’s Corporate Citizenship Report — our way of opening the door and showing how we put our values to work every day. Inside, you’ll find stories, data and real examples of how we support our team, clients, rural communities and natural resources. It’s a snapshot of where we are today and the commitments guiding us forward.
Who This Report Is For
This report is for those who want a closer look at what we stand for and how we show up — whether you’re a cooperative member-owner, client, community partner or someone who cares about the future of agriculture and rural America.
Why It Matters
We believe transparency builds trust. By sharing our impact, we hold ourselves accountable to the people and communities we serve. It’s one more way we live out our mission: championing the hopes and dreams of rural America, together.
COMPEER
A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO AND BOARD CHAIR
We are pleased to introduce Leading With Impact, Compeer Financial’s inaugural corporate citizenship report. This yearly publication outlines our initiatives and impact across four key areas.
Our team is central to our organization’s success. Their expertise and commitment enable us to meet the financial needs of our clients while supporting their long-term goals. A strong culture of collaboration allows us to provide effective financial solutions.
Our engagement with rural communities is reflected in our investments, partnerships and volunteer efforts. These initiatives support economic development and contribute to the sustainability of the regions we serve.
With a strong focus on sustainability dedicated to serving as responsible stewards of the land, water and natural resources, ensuring their longevity and vitality for generations to come.
A diverse financial portfolio resilience, allowing us to support clients in both stable and uncertain economic conditions. By working with a broad range of agricultural producers,
we address the varied financial needs of our clients and help them navigate their business challenges.
This report provides an overview of Compeer Financial’s efforts to support agriculture and rural communities. We invite you to explore the stories within and share in our mission to make a lasting impact on agriculture and rural America.
With thanks,
Jase Wagner | President & CEO
Stephanie Wise | Board Chair, Compeer Financial
Our Team
EMPOWERING TEAM GROWTH, WELL-BEING AND IMPACT
At Compeer Financial, we believe that a fulfilling life and fulfilling work go hand in hand. Our philosophy of being “empowered to live, inspired to work” is not just a tagline — it’s a core belief that drives our actions and decisions. Our deep commitment to team members reinforces this philosophy.
We understand that a thriving team is one where individuals are supported in their personal and professional lives. With a wide range of benefits, including paid volunteer time, team member recognition, professional development opportunities, work groups and avenues for community involvement, we create an environment where everyone can flourish.
Team members are encouraged to make a difference in ways that feel purposeful to them. We recognize personal fulfillment comes from the ability to contribute to something larger than oneself. Each team member is empowered to make meaningful impacts, both within the organization and in the broader community.
We are dedicated to fostering an environment where individuals can leverage their diverse knowledge, backgrounds and passions for service. These differences aren’t just accepted, but they’re celebrated as they drive innovation and excellence in everything we do.
Our team of more than 1,400 individuals is encouraged to seek out, involve and value people from diverse backgrounds. By tapping into individual strengths, experiences and talents, we create solutions that help our clients achieve their goals.
Inclusion is a brand value at Compeer. We aim to champion an inclusive work environment by exhibiting inclusive behaviors and seeking out opportunities to share knowledge. To further support this commitment, we established a Diversity and Inclusion Council, comprised of team members from across our 42 offices. This council ensures voices are heard, and that inclusion is embedded in every part of our organization. The goal is to foster an environment that empowers our team to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our mission.
In addition, Compeer supports team members by providing time to care for and bond with their newborn or newly adopted child and to assist team members as they transition back to work. We offer eligible team members six weeks of paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child, which can be taken intermittently or consecutively over a rolling 12 month period.
To maximize contributions, Compeer offers a variety of programs and
resources to support professional and personal growth. Initiatives include continuous learning opportunities, mentoring programs and leadership development workshops, helping team members enhance their skills and expand their capabilities. By investing in professional development, we ensure our team is equipped to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural and rural communities we serve.
We also encourage collaboration and open communication at all levels, allowing team members to share insights and develop innovative solutions. This collaborative spirit strengthens our organization and cultivates a sense of purpose among team members.
Through these efforts, Compeer is committed to enabling team members to make a lasting difference, both within the organization and in the communities we serve.
A world where AGRICULTURE and RURAL COMMUNITIES are dynamic, collaborative and thriving. Our Vision
MICHELLE MEDLANG
Power BI Technical Lead
Michelle dedicates her time to mentoring young 4-H and FFA members, helping them gain hands-on experience with dairy cattle. Through her mentorship, 18 young people gained firsthand experience in agriculture while showing their animals at the Worth County Fair in Iowa.
ALISON KEPNER Financial Officer
Alison exemplifies servant leadership through her extensive volunteer work, from providing mental health training to advocating for rural communities. Her passion and commitment shine in local fundraising efforts and public policy advocacy, ensuring the well-being of her community.
THE HEART OF GIVING: THE IMPACT OF VOLUNTEERING
Giving back isn’t a duty for those at Compeer Financial — it’s a heartfelt commitment that enriches our team members and the rural communities we cherish. Volunteering fosters personal growth while making a meaningful difference. That’s why we provide each team member with up to 16 hours of paid volunteer time annually to support their chosen cause.
From supporting local organizations to mentoring youth in agriculture, our team members are actively creating a ripple effect of kindness and connection. Compeer provides each team member 16 hours of paid volunteer time annually to support their chosen cause. In 2024 alone, we proudly logged more than 4,300 volunteer hours. But it’s not just about the numbers — it’s about the lives we touch and the stories we share.
We believe in recognizing those who go above and beyond. In 2024, we launched our internal Annual Team Member Awards and honored two exceptional volunteers: Michelle Medlang and Alison Kepner. Their efforts are highlighted in the sidebar accompanying this article.
At Compeer, we celebrate the power of volunteering, which is an essential part of our culture and shared journey toward a brighter future. Together, we’re not just making an impact; we’re building lasting connections that uplift us all.
4,300
Total volunteer hours logged by Compeer team members in 2024
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I know if I were traveling overnight with my team and had a panic attack at 1 a.m. that I could call any one of my team members to talk, and that’s really powerful. I love the work I do, but it’s the culture that sets the organization apart.
HEATHER MULDER
Compeer Home Analyst
SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH: HOW COMPEER’S CULTURE EMPOWERS TEAM MEMBERS
Heather Mulder, one of Compeer Financial’s 1,400 team members, feels encouraged to bring her authentic self to work every day, knowing she is supported in doing so.
In October 2024, Mulder participated in Compeer’s Diversity and Inclusion Council’s annual “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” panel, where she shared her journey with anxiety. Mulder has struggled with panic attacks since her teenage years and has found support through medication, coping strategies and her team at Compeer.
“A month after my niece passed away, I had an awful day,” recalled Mulder. “I couldn’t concentrate. I sent a message to my whole team and said, ‘I’m really struggling today.’”
Her team responded with support and compassion, encouraging her to prioritize her well-being.
“The empathy you receive at work makes a huge difference,” she said.
“I know if I were traveling overnight with my team and had a panic attack at 1 a.m., I could call any one of my team members to talk, and that’s powerful. I love the work I do, but it’s the culture that sets the organization apart.”
Community
STRENGTHENING RURAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH MISSION FINANCING, PARTNERSHIPS AND ADVOCACY
We don’t just invest in projects; we invest in the future of rural communities. It’s about creating a foundation for long-term success and resilience.
Through targeted financing, strategic partnerships and ongoing advocacy, Compeer Financial is empowering rural communities across the Midwest. As a cooperative serving agriculture and rural communities, we recognize the vital role of vibrant, resilient rural areas in sustaining agriculture and the broader economy. Our mission-driven investments and collaborative efforts address pressing challenges in rural areas so communities will not just survive but thrive.
Over the past 18 years, Compeer has provided more than $623 million in mission financing to projects that support essential community infrastructure. These investments span 109 projects in 25 states, including 29 hospitals and medical clinics, 25 senior care facilities and other communitycentered spaces.
Working with partners like commercial banks, other Farm Credit institutions and USDA Rural Development, we’re helping close critical funding gaps for essential community facilities. Our efforts have initiated projects with a total debt of $1.3 billion, showcasing how cooperative financing can drive change in rural areas.
Our commitment to rural vitality goes beyond financial support. To better understand infrastructure needs in
these regions, Compeer partnered with research firm Escalent. The resulting study underscores a critical funding shortfall: Rural communities face nearly $200 billion in unmet infrastructure needs, including an annual $6 billion gap for essential facilities. By better understanding this situation, we can advocate more effectively for federal and local policies and resources that support rural prosperity, including additional funding through the Farm Credit System.
Fostering partnerships is another essential part of Compeer’s strategy. Collaborations with organizations like Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) allow us to expand our impact. Working with CEDA, we support programs that foster rural business innovation, including a Rural Business Innovation Lab that aids entrepreneurs in building robust businesses, even in isolated areas. Through pilot projects in multiple communities, we’re learning directly from residents to address local priorities such as improving broadband, enhancing workforce training and developing infrastructure.
Our partnership with the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) exemplifies this collaborative approach. Together, we’re expanding SMIF’s Rural Entrepreneurial Venture (REV) program, which supports towns in nurturing
entrepreneurial ecosystems. The REV framework has already driven economic growth in many Minnesota communities by providing tools for youth retention, business development and community empowerment. With Compeer’s support, the program is being introduced in other communities across Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois so small towns can turn local innovation into long-term prosperity.
Looking ahead, we’re optimistic about the possibilities that expanded Farm Credit authority in the next Farm Bill could bring. The proposed language would allow Compeer and other Farm Credit institutions to finance a broader range of community facilities so they can provide services like childcare, mental health care and public transportation. By enabling more flexible lending in partnership with local banks, these provisions could dramatically improve rural areas’ capacity to fund their futures.
Rural communities have the potential for a prosperous future. Compeer is proud to help them thrive by building financial pathways, forming partnerships and advocating for supportive policies. Through strategic initiatives and a shared vision, we support rural America not only in meeting today’s challenges but also in laying a strong foundation for tomorrow.
PARTNERING FOR RURAL HEALTH CARE: COMPEER BRINGS STATE-OF-THE-ART CARE TO RURAL WISCONSIN
Compeer Financial joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture, CoBank and two local community banks to finance Cumberland Healthcare’s state-of-the-art hospital in Wisconsin, a nearly $40 million project.
Cumberland’s original health care facility, built in 1955 and expanded multiple times, lacked the capacity to provide modern medical care. To meet the needs of the rural community, the nonprofit provider secured funding for a three-level, 96,000-squarefoot building.
Compeer’s mission to enrich agriculture and rural America is evident in projects like Cumberland Memorial Hospital, which enhances local health and wellness services, supporting the town and surrounding areas. The new facility has already stimulated economic growth in the rural community of 2,268 residents, starting with local contractors contributing to construction and continuing with workforce recruitment.
Following the decision to invest in a new building, Cumberland Healthcare recruited three family practice physicians and a general surgeon.
“Supporting projects like Cumberland Memorial Hospital ensures rural America has access to the same services and amenities available in larger cities,” said Bob Madsen, Compeer’s vice president of rural vitality. “Quality health care is a basic need everyone should have access to, regardless of where they live.”
What’s at Stake
The future of agriculture and rural communities depends on strong advocacy. Compeer is at the forefront of these efforts. With every visit to Capitol Hill, partnerships with stakeholders and conversations with policymakers, Compeer is driving solutions that support rural vitality and agricultural innovation. Together, we are working to ensure the success of farmers, ranchers and rural communities for generations to come.
STANDING STRONG IN D.C. FOR AGRICULTURE AND RURAL COMMUNITIES
Advocating for agriculture and rural communities is at the core of Compeer Financial’s mission. Our team works tirelessly to share the stories of farmers, ranchers and rural residents so their needs are heard in Washington, D.C.
Whether through direct advocacy or collaboration with key stakeholders, we represent rural America at the highest levels of government. A shining example of this commitment is our participation in the Farm Credit Fly-In and other Capitol Hill visits, where we engage lawmakers and policymakers to raise awareness of the challenges farmers face and the role agriculture plays in the national economy. Our team has also participated in Farm Bill discussions, using our expertise to advocate for provisions that benefit farmers and rural communities.
One notable initiative involves Compeer’s New Markets team, which recently had the honor of representing Compeer at the White House. As part of the Agriculture Finance Sustainability Coalition (AgFiSC), our team
joined federal agencies and stakeholders to discuss the financial challenges farmers face in adopting sustainable practices. By participating in discussions about the allocation of Greenhouse Gas Reduction Funds, Compeer is helping create pathways for farmers to access funding, giving them the financial tools to transition to more sustainable practices.
Another significant effort is in our rural vitality work, advocating for expanded Farm Credit authority to finance essential infrastructure in rural communities. Through months of collaboration, lobbying and direct engagement, our team succeeded in influencing Farm Bill language to include provisions that will enable Farm Credit to finance critical community facilities like health care and mental health centers in rural areas. We continue to advocate for the passage of a new Farm Bill that includes these provisions.
As we continue our advocacy, we stand strong with others to amplify the voices of agriculture
and rural America. By actively engaging with policymakers, fostering collaboration and providing financial solutions, we are dedicated to shaping a future where agriculture thrives and rural communities are empowered to grow and succeed.
Left top: Representative Tom Emmer (left) met with Compeer directors and team members in Washington, D.C. Left bottom: Compeer team members (left to right) Krystal Bartsh, John Monson, Perry Aasness and Bob Madsen at the Farm Credit Fly-In. Above: Compeer directors Dale Holmgren (left) and Dan Erickson (right) alongside Compeer President & CEO Jase Wagner (middle).
COMPEER TEAM MEMBERS
SUPPORT RURAL COMMUNITIES
NEAR AND FAR
Compeer Financial team members are deeply committed to their communities, going beyond their lending roles to serve as partners and stewards of rural America. In 2024, they volunteered on nonprofit committees, helped at food banks and supported 4-H youth competitions.
Their dedication extends beyond Compeer’s territories. In response to the widespread
devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in fall 2024, Compeer’s Fond du Lac, Wis., office organized a farm supply and hurricane relief drive. The effort provided hay, feed, farm supplies, veterinary items and water to farmers in Tennessee affected by the hurricane.
“Like others, after seeing the devastation online, we were looking for an opportunity to help,” said Amanda Kummer, associate loan officer. “When we saw local farmers in Sheboygan County, Wis. organizing trips to the affected areas and seeking specific farming supplies, we knew it was a meaningful way to contribute and make a difference.”
This spirit of service highlights the dedication Compeer team members have to supporting rural communities — both close to home and beyond.
Left page: Compeer team members (left to right) Sherri Nelson, Amanda Kummer and Mary Daun organized a farm supply and hurricane relief drive for farmers affected by Hurricane Helene in fall 2024.
Sustainability
COMPEER DRIVES SUSTAINABILITY IN AGRICULTURE, ENERGY
Being mindful of how behaviors and practices impact the environment is essential to achieving our mission of enriching agriculture and rural America. Compeer Financial is making a difference through our financial offerings, industry partnerships and initiatives in our office buildings.
Supporting Clients
Compeer serves all types of agriculture, including the various techniques farmers use in their operations. Our team focuses on understanding what our clients want to achieve and providing them with the financial resources they need to succeed.
For many in agriculture, implementing sustainable practices presents unique challenges due to the need for costly equipment and the
Compeer Financial
& CEO
joined other food and agriculture leaders for a panel discussion on alignment and transformation in the value chain at the Reuter’s Transform Food & Agriculture USA conference in October 2024 in Minneapolis. Wagner shared insights on helping farmers adopt sustainable practices while remaining profitable. He also discussed his role as chair of the MBOLD coalition and the efforts to align supply chain partners to advance agricultural sustainability.
influence of unpredictable factors like weather and economic conditions.
Compeer helps interested producers evaluate new approaches for their operation, including costs involved, available financing and anticipated return on investment. In addition to providing one-on-one financial guidance, Compeer offers structured learning opportunities through webinars and conferences with industry experts.
Compeer believes sustainable farming practices should be a viable option for interested producers. To that end, we’re building partnerships to remove barriers and increase the agriculture industry’s access to sustainable funding and incentive programs. Our team is also exploring how existing resources can be enhanced to bring the most value to farmers.
“We’re eager to help make it easier for farmers to pursue practices that improve soil vitality, reduce irrigation and inputs, increase organic production and utilize renewable energy resources,” said Jase Wagner, president and CEO of Compeer. “It’s an honor to work alongside our industry partners to help those in agriculture and rural communities make a positive impact on the environment.”
Compeer extends support beyond
traditional farming to renewable energy initiatives, including financing for ethanol, wind and renewable diesel production. We have committed more than $780 million to renewable fuel and biogas efforts. Wagner, who serves as chair of Minnesota’s MBOLD coalition, actively participates in conversations focused on reducing emissions beyond the farm, including the supply chain and product lifecycle.
Our initiatives also include collaborating with farming clients interested in using solar energy to help power their operations, further reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Our Buildings and Our Team Compeer delivers services through offices and teams in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. In recent years, several locations have received heating and cooling updates, and all locations have been converted to LED lighting to reduce energy consumption. A 2020 comprehensive facilities study revealed opportunities for new locations and existing building renovations, resulting in a reduction in Compeer’s footprint.
Office renovations and new construction were completed with sustainability in
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Above:
President
Jase Wagner (second from left)
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We’re cycling nutrients back into the land, and in turn, the land is helping us by growing our crops. I love it. I’ve done so much research and am always trying to find new ways to be sustainable.
DANIEL JANSKI
Compeer Client
South Haven, Minn.
Janski has implemented no-till practices with cover crops across 4,000 acres
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mind, featuring state-of-the-art systems and finishes to reduce environmental impacts.
On a smaller scale, Compeer encourages sustainability in office breakrooms. Programmable water dispensers reduce plastic bottle use, and recycling programs prevent single-use plastics like K-Cup coffee packs from reaching landfills. More than 33,000 plastic bottles have been saved from landfills due to office water dispensers — stacked, this would be more than 15 times the height of the Empire State Building!
Transportation is another area of focus for the organization. Compeer’s vehicle
leasing program for team members offers fuel-efficient and hybrid models, with plans to expand the hybrid fleet as technology advances. Additionally, videoconferencing and online banking tools have reduced overall travel activity while maintaining client connections and service.
Compeer expects efforts related to sustainability in our buildings, among our team and in agriculture and rural communities to continue to grow as the organization and technology evolve.
Key Sustainability Partnerships
Delta Institute. Compeer partners with Delta Institute to explore new ways to connect soil health and land valuation. It’s a practical approach that benefits farmers, appraisers and lenders throughout the Midwest.
MBOLD. Members include major companies across the food and agriculture supply chain, as well as researchers, nonprofits and other partners working to develop practical solutions to global challenges in the food and agriculture sectors.
Agriculture Financial Sustainability Coalition
(AgFiSC). With representation from the agriculture industry, environmental groups and financial institutions, AgFiSC works to identify opportunities that can make sustainable farming practices more affordable.
COMPEER JOINS WHITE HOUSE ROUNDTABLE ON FINANCING SUSTAINABLE
FARMING
Compeer Financial participated in a White House meeting in September 2024 to discuss the financial challenges farmers face in adopting sustainable farming practices. The roundtable included Compeer as a participant and steering committee member of the Agriculture Finance Sustainability Coalition (AgFiSC), which focuses on increasing financing opportunities for agricultural practices and equipment that benefit the environment.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Farm Credit Council, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency, Farm Service Agency and other key partners.
During the gathering, Compeer representatives shared insights on the variability in farming and the challenges farmers face in transitioning to sustainable practices. They emphasized Compeer’s commitment to supporting agriculture and rural America by empowering farmers to decide what works best for their operations while providing tools and resources to help them succeed.
Compeer Financial New Markets Director Mary Morgan and Managing Director Bryan
share how funding programs can help farmers overcome barriers to adopting sustainable practices.
As an AgFiSC member with significant agricultural lending expertise, Compeer is leading efforts to expand financing solutions for farmers. The team is exploring options to extend low-interest equipment loans, guarantee pools, grants and crop warranties. Additionally, Compeer is working with partner agencies to assess whether existing programs could be combined to offer more incentives and value to farmers.
26,635
Acres enrolled in Compeer Carbon Acres for carbon sequestration
Members in the Agriculture Finance Sustainability Coalition (AgFiSC)
Above:
Stanek
Above: Participants in the White House Roundtable on Financing Climate-Smart Agriculture included Compeer Financial’s Bryan Stanek and Mary Morgan.
JB FARMS: PIONEERING SUSTAINABILITY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
For farmers looking to adopt climate-smart practices, the journey often comes with challenges and rewards. Josh Betcher, who farms 450 acres in Mazeppa, Minn., shared his experience integrating sustainability on his fifth-generation family farm, JB Farms.
Betcher’s sustainability efforts began in 2013 with prevent planting, when a farmer or planter doesn’t plant an insured crop by the final planting date in their area.
“We used that time as an opportunity to experiment,” he said.
During the downtime, Betcher tried no-till, cover crops and other conservation practices. What began as a way to navigate a tough year quickly became a core part of the farm’s strategy.
The benefits have been clear. During a drought in 2023, Betcher’s yields stayed within 2% of the farm’s peak, thanks to his sustainable practices.
“The cover crops and strip-till really paid off,” noted Betcher.
In contrast, heavy rainfall in 2024 caused erosion and runoff on many nearby farms, but Betcher’s approach helped mitigate those risks.
“We didn’t have the runoff others did,” he explained. “It’s been key for managing water.”
However, adopting sustainability practices wasn’t without hurdles. One of the biggest challenges Betcher faced was the cost of new technology.
“The upfront investment in equipment was tough,” he said.
With support from partners like Compeer Financial, Betcher secured financing for smart-farming tools, allowing him to scale these practices across more acres.
Betcher’s goal is simple: leave the farm in better condition for the next generation.
“Sustainability isn’t just about the land — it’s about making sure my kids have a future in farming,” he said.
By embracing new practices, Betcher is ensuring that JB Farms remains profitable and environmentally sound for years to come.
Josh Betcher saw yields stay within 2% of his farm's peak during a drought in 2023, thanks to his sustainable practices.
Above: Compeer Financial Officer Mark Purfeerst (left) and client Josh Betcher discuss the benefits of sustainable farming.
Diversity in Agriculture
SUPPORTING DIVERSE FARMING PRACTICES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Compeer Financial recognizes the diversity in agriculture and is committed to serving all areas of farming. This commitment goes beyond simply acknowledging the varied practices in the industry; it’s about actively supporting farmers in their unique approaches by providing the resources to help them achieve their goals. Whether farmers are using traditional methods or embracing new technology, Compeer ensures they have the tools, experience and guidance to succeed.
Agriculture is far from a one-size-fits-all industry. It spans a vast range of practices, crops and livestock, each shaped by the unique environmental, cultural and economic contexts in which they are cultivated. From farm-to-table businesses to large-scale operations, each farm is distinct and each farmer’s journey is different.
We believe it’s essential to support the diversity of these operations, understanding that agriculture should not fit a specific mold. Whether a farm is minority-owned, woman-owned or operated on a few acres or thousands, we proudly serve all types of farmers across our 144-county territory.
This commitment to diversity is not just about acknowledging differences — it’s about actively supporting all farmers and farming practices to ensure sustainable and prosperous outcomes. A diverse portfolio allows Compeer to build a more stable, enduring foundation for agricultural investments
(see pie chart). By supporting a wide range of farming types, we ensure not only our own success but also the success of the agricultural community.
Fostering diversity in agriculture also plays a crucial role in promoting equality and innovation. Many farmers, especially those from historically marginalized groups, face barriers to success, including limited access to land, capital and markets. These barriers can prevent farmers from reaching their full potential, but with the right support, they can overcome these challenges and contribute to the growth of the agriculture industry. At Compeer, we offer targeted resources to help level the playing field, making sure all farmers can thrive.
By supporting farmers from diverse backgrounds, we encourage the adoption of a wide range of farming practices, each with its own advantages. These practices can range from timetested, age-old methods handed down through generations to the latest advancements in agricultural technology. Understanding and respecting these diverse approaches allows us to better serve our member-owners and communities, offering resources and guidance to help farmers make informed decisions that suit their operations.
Our commitment to diversity in agriculture focuses on creating an environment where all farmers can confidently pursue their goals. By valuing unique perspectives and practices in the agriculture industry, Compeer aims to drive innovation, enhance sustainability and build a thriving future for farming communities across the upper Midwest. Through collaboration and dedication, we strive to meet the diverse needs of the agricultural community, contributing to a world of equality and prosperity.
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It’s about being part of something bigger — connecting with people, sharing what we love and always finding ways to grow.
MARC BERNARD
Compeer Client, Rustic Road Farm
RUSTIC ROAD FARM: GROWTH, COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABLE FARMING
Rustic Road Farm, established by Marc and Luis Bernard in 2011 in Elburn, Ill., has grown from a 5-acre property to an 18-acre farm known for heritage livestock, heirloom vegetables and community-supported agriculture (CSA). With nine hoop houses, five heated for year-round produce, the farm raises heritage Red Wattle pigs, Wagyu steers and chickens, serving more than 500 CSA families each year.
Marc, a former chef, leveraged his culinary background to offer valueadded products like soups and prepared meals. Expanding to the 30-acre Cloonlara Farm, supported by Compeer Financial, the Bernards plan to enhance production while preserving the land for future farming.
Community is at the heart of Rustic Road Farm, with activities like baby goat interactions and farmers market engagement. Luis connects with customers, offering cooking tips to highlight the freshness of their produce. Compeer’s Ty Martin and Karen Zelko praise Marc’s openness to growth and customer focus, attributes that drive the farm’s continuous evolution. As they scale up, Marc and Luis remain committed to sustainability, community and sharing their passion for farming.
Above (left to right): Marc and Luis Bernard own and operate Rustic Road Farm in Elburn, Ill.
SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF AGRICULTURE
Compeer Financial is committed to supporting young, beginning and small farmers, recognizing their critical role as the foundation of agriculture’s future. Through its innovative young, beginning and small farmer program, Compeer provides access to competitive credit, tailored financial services and educational opportunities to meet the unique and diverse needs of these farmers.
Young, beginning and small farmers are defined as:
• Age 35 or younger
• 10 years or less of farming, ranching or aquatic experience
• Sustained agricultural production sales of less than $350,000
Young, beginning and small farmers represent more than 70% of Compeer’s portfolio, underscoring the cooperative’s dedication to empowering the future of agriculture.
Sawyer Cottrell, a cattle farmer in Eureka, Ill., and Compeer’s 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year, exemplifies the resilience and innovation Compeer supports. Without a family farming background, Cottrell built Legacy Ranch, a 10-acre farm specializing in American Wagyu, offering premium beef through direct-to-consumer sales and nationwide shipping. His entrepreneurial drive also led him to establish Central Illinois Beanwalkers, employing 120 local youth each summer and injecting $750,000 in payroll to the local economy over the past five years. As an agriculture teacher and FFA
advisor at Eureka High School, Cottrell’s passion for inspiring the next generation is palpable.
“Farmers like Sawyer are the lifeblood of agriculture’s future,” noted Dana Wiegand, Cottrell’s financial officer at Compeer. “Our young, beginning and small farmer program equips farmers from diverse backgrounds — first-generation, second career or traditional legacy — with the tools, knowledge and financial support they need to thrive.”
For Cottrell, it’s all about building a legacy for the future.
“I’m passionate about raising my kids on a farm,” he explained. “I’m also passionate about providing opportunities for others who share that dream.”
By championing the next generation, Compeer is creating opportunities for growth and innovation—helping young, beginning and small farmers turn their dreams into sustainable operations and building lasting legacies.
Top: Sawyer and Abbie Cottrell and their three children stand with their cattle in Eureka, Ill. Middle: Sawyer Cottrell was Compeer’s 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year. Bottom: In addition to farming, Sawyer Cottrell is also an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. Above: Sawyer Cottrell empties feed with his children.
BLONDIES BUTCHER SHOP: TRANSFORMING LOCAL BUTCHERY
WITH COMMUNITY AND EDUCATION
In the small farming community of Wanamingo, Minn., there’s a standout sight: the only pink meat locker west of the Mississippi. Adorned with witty signage and packed with high-quality meats, Blondies Butcher Shop has become a cornerstone of both local and national butchery culture.
Lindsey Loken has operated the shop for 13 years, offering farm-to-table products that support the local community.
Loken’s journey to becoming a butcher was anything but conventional. Originally a paramedic in Wyoming,
she returned home to southeastern Minnesota when her father suggested she buy the meat locker across the street from his welding shop. Despite initial doubts, she embraced the challenge. With her family’s support, Blondies Butcher Shop was born.
Over the years, the shop evolved from a small local business into a national brand, gaining attention for its commitment to education, community engagement and signature flair.
Loken’s success stems from her innovative approach to butchery. The shop is celebrated not only for its
“
Welcome to the only pink meat locker west of the Mississippi!
LINDSEY LOKEN
Compeer Client Blondies Butcher Shop
quality meats but also for its educational efforts. Loken and her predominantly female team collaborate with local farmers, offering tours and sharing insights on meat processing and sustainable practices. Regular media appearances and a strong social media presence further her mission, dispelling myths and fostering dialogue between farmers and consumers.
Blondies Butcher Shop exemplifies how small businesses can thrive by carving out a niche, embracing their communities and staying true to their mission.
Above: Blondies Butcher Shop owner Lindsey Loken (right) talks with Bill Arthur, her financial officer with Compeer.
About Compeer
Our mission is simple yet profound:
To enrich agriculture and rural America by providing specialized financial solutions to the people who feed, fuel and sustain the nation.
Compeer Financial, a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative, is dedicated to strengthening agriculture and rural communities across Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Our mission is simple yet profound: to enrich agriculture and rural America by providing specialized financial solutions to the people who feed, fuel and sustain the nation. We proudly support farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in 144 counties in the upper Midwest by offering loans, leases, crop insurance, appraisals, tax and accounting services and more.
Our cooperative model empowers our 1,400 team members to serve 76,000 member-owners with personalized attention and industry expertise. We aim to meet the needs of rural clients, regardless of their operation’s size, the crops they grow or the livestock they raise. Our priority is to be accessible and responsive — whether in person, over the phone or via digital platforms. Our team often meets clients where they work — in fields, in barns and at kitchen tables — so we can better understand and address their unique needs.
As a member of the Farm Credit System, Compeer is part of a nationwide network of lending institutions that has served agriculture and rural America for more than 100 years. This cooperative structure is based on a powerful mission: to provide consistent, reliable credit to agriculture and rural communities in good and challenging times.
Farm Credit’s more than 600,000 members include farmers, ranchers, rural homebuyers, agribusinesses and rural infrastructure providers across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Compeer is one of the largest cooperatives in this network, managing more than $34 billion in total assets and bringing financial strength and stability to the region we serve.
Agriculture and rural communities are deeply interconnected, shaping and supporting each other. This relationship is at the heart of our vision: a world where agriculture and rural communities are dynamic, collaborative and thriving. To foster this vision, we support community health and economic development by creating an environment where agriculture can innovate and adapt, and rural communities can grow and prosper alongside it.
In today’s fast-paced world, we embrace innovation to stay ahead of industry changes and meet the needs of the next generation of producers. While our rural roots ground us in purpose, our forward-thinking approach drives us to use technology and modern solutions to support our member-owners.
We are also committed to giving back to the communities we serve. Through the Fund for Rural America, our charitable giving
arm, we direct 1% of our net income each year to community grants, scholarships and programs that build resilience and opportunity in rural areas. We support essential services like volunteer fire and ambulance departments, educational initiatives and agricultural development projects. By investing in our communities, we invest in the future of agriculture and rural America.
As a cooperative, we share our success with our member-owners. Patronage is a central part of our business model. Since 2017, we have returned more than $1 billion in patronage to our member-owners, including cash patronage payments that benefit our clients and allocated equity payments that strengthen their long-term financial position. Patronage is a tangible reflection of our commitment to rural prosperity, exemplifying the advantages of our cooperative structure, where we share our success with those who drive our purpose forward.
Compeer is more than a financial institution; we are advocates, partners and allies to rural America. Our dedication to the cooperative model, focus on sustainable growth and commitment to supporting agriculture and rural communities drive us to fulfill our mission. Together with our clients, we’re building a future that champions the hopes and dreams of rural America, creating lasting value and making a positive impact for generations to come.
CHAMPIONING THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF RURAL AMERICA, TOGETHER
