For years, Jessie Najera measured success by what he could grow in the field. Rows planted, harvests delivered, and customers gained were the clearest signs his farm was moving forward. But as the business expanded, Jessie realized that growing a successful farm also meant understanding the numbers behind it.
After more than 15 years working in agriculture, Jessie was encouraged by his father to build something of his own, leading him to ALBA, where he began farming on a half acre in 2021. Within three years, he launched Jessie's Organic Farm and expanded to 4.5 acres, supplying organic produce through distributors and schools. While the farm was growing quickly, the financial systems behind it were still developing. Like many beginning farmers, Jessie tracked expenses informally, often mixing personal and business finances while relying on instinct to judge profitability.
"Before, everything was mixed together and I just hoped things were going well. Now I can actually see my income, my expenses, and what my farm is earning.” — Jessie Najera, Jessie’s Organic Farm
Jessie first connected with California FarmLink while seeking financing to improve operations during peak season. Renting a tractor each year was expensive and time-consuming, cutting into valuable production hours. Although traditional lenders were hesitant because he had only one year of filed taxes, FarmLink looked at the full picture, his strong credit, growing sales, and history of reinvesting in his farm, and approved both an equipment and operating loan. Jessie became the first ALBA grower to secure financing through FarmLink.
With the loan secured, the deeper work began. Jessie also participated in FarmLink’s bookkeeping pilot program, where he received hands-on support organizing receipts, improving financial records, and implementing QuickBooks Online. The process reduced costly corrections and gave him greater confidence managing his finances.
The impact became clear during a review of his year-end financial statements. Looking at the finalized numbers, Jessie paused and said, "No way, I made that much!"
For years, mixed accounts and incomplete records had hidden the farm’s true profitability. Today, with clear financial systems in place, Jessie uses financial reports to guide the future of his farm, an example of how accessible lending, technical assistance, and financial education can help beginning farmers build stronger businesses.
A shorter version of this story appeared in our 2025 Annual Report.
