Andy Larson

Farm Program Manager

Andy Larson is an agricultural finance and business specialist with deep experience in farm lending, Extension education, and sustainable agriculture systems. His work focuses on helping farm businesses strengthen financial performance, navigate capital access, and plan for long-term viability and transition. 

Andy previously served as an Agriculture and Commercial Loan Officer at German American State Bank, where he provided financing to a wide range of farm and rural businesses across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. His portfolio included conventional dairy and row crop operations as well as diversified farms pursuing value-added and niche markets, including grass-fed meats, farmstead cheese, and specialty crops. 

Earlier in his career, Andy spent a decade in Extension roles with Iowa State University and the University of Illinois, where he developed and delivered educational programming on farm business management, marketing, and sustainable agriculture. He worked with beginning farmers launching new enterprises as well as established operations navigating growth and generational transition. During this time, he also served as a state coordinator for North Central SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education), supporting grantmaking and professional development for agricultural educators. 

Andy’s perspective is grounded in his upbringing on a dairy farm in northern Illinois and his continued involvement in agriculture. He and his family operate a small free-range egg business supplying local retailers, restaurants, and farmers markets. 

Outside of his professional work, Andy is involved in community organizations supporting sustainable and alternative agriculture. He lives with his wife and three daughters. 

• Master of Business Administration – Iowa State University 

• Master of Science, Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences – University of Illinois 

• Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology and Environmental Science – University of Notre Dame