Nestled in the heart of Boulder’s agricultural community, SOIL Boulder is revolutionizing the way we think about our local food systems. Originally launched in 2018 under the guidance of the Slow Money Institute, SOIL Boulder is a 501(c)(3) that emerged from a vision of connecting local resources with local needs. SOIL Boulder is not just about food production—it’s about cultivating community resilience and economic sustainability.
“We’re here to catalyze the flow of money into local food systems,” says Suzanne Prendergast, executive committee vice president of SOIL. “It’s about more than supporting farmers; it’s about deepening our connection to the places where we live.” This mission is realized through SOIL’s innovative loan program, which provides 0% interest loans to local farmers and food entrepreneurs. By eliminating financial barriers, SOIL Boulder enables farmers to invest in their operations, fostering a more resilient local food economy.
Real Impact Through Nurture Capital
Success for SOIL Boulder is measured not by profits, but by the tangible impact on the community, reflecting Slow Money founder Woody Tasch’s philosophy of "nurture capital."
“We love knowing our 0% loans help small businesses thrive,” Prendergast shares. This support has allowed local farmers to weather financial hurdles, ensuring they can continue producing food despite unpredictable challenges like fluctuating weather patterns.
One example of SOIL Boulder’s impact is Dryland Agroecology Research (DAR). A recent loan enabled DAR to purchase a row mulcher, which transformed their operations. The mulcher has significantly scaled DAR’s operations and reduced labor costs. Similarly, the Tool Library utilized a SOIL loan to acquire essential farming equipment, helping seven local farms streamline their work and reduce costs.
These are just two of the 34 loan recipients who have benefited from SOIL Boulder’s financial support, and they are just getting started.
Collaboration to Strengthening Local Food & Soil Systems
SOIL Boulder’s success goes beyond providing loans—it’s built on strong partnerships. Collaborations with organizations such as the Flatirons Farmers Coalition, Yellow Barn Farm, and Slow Food Boulder have enhanced its ability to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of local farmers.
“We engage with the community through SOIL Socials,” Prendergast explains. These bi-monthly events foster organic relationships between farmers, food entrepreneurs, and supporters, allowing the community to stay connected and responsive to emerging challenges. Through these gatherings, SOIL Boulder has built trust with farmers, who now see them as an advocate and supportive partner.
By empowering farmers to produce nutrient-dense food within Boulder County, they are nourishing both the land and the community. Grama Grass & Livestock, one of SOIL Boulder’s partners, exemplifies this mission through intentional grazing methods that regenerate soil health and restore prairie ecosystems.
Join the Movement
SOIL Boulder’s mission thrives through community involvement. Anyone can join the SOIL community with a $250 annual donation. By becoming a member, individuals contribute directly to sustaining local farms and strengthening Boulder’s food systems. In a world where food security and environmental health face growing challenges, SOIL Boulder is demonstrating that local action can drive global change—one farm at a time.
For more information or to get involved, visit SOILBoulder.org.