Business Dream Takes Flight with a New Growth Microloan
Levi first discovered his passion for drones while attending a drone mapping class at State Technical College of Missouri. Because of that class, he started crafting a plan to turn his new interest into a business. After graduating, he was ready to launch Midwest Drones, a company specializing in spraying agricultural pesticides. However, Levi encountered a financial hurdle: his USDA loan required a 25% match, and his savings fell short.
That’s how New Growth was able to help. With a $10,000 microloan from New Growth, Levi was able to bridge the gap and purchase the equipment he needed. “I took my last final at 8 a.m., and by the afternoon, my drone was in the air working,” Levi said. He was so busy with business that he skipped his college graduation ceremony.
Matter of fact, Levi’s business, Midwest Plains Drone, based in Amsterdam, Missouri – a town of just 500 people, among the smallest of small towns in Missouri– has absolutely thrived in its first season.
The evolving drone industry has opened new doors for growth, and Levi is optimistic about the future. “Drones have evolved a lot in just the last five years, and it's an emerging industry with lots of growth potential,” Levi explained. He also emphasized the safety advantage drones offer compared to traditional crop dusting, as no pilot is at risk in the air.
As of mid-October, Levi had completed his first season successfully, having made a living, paid his bills, and even made equipment upgrades while securing customers for the next season too. He credits New Growth’s microlending program for making his dream possible. “I couldn’t have done it without that ‘small’ additional funding and their support,” Levi said. “New Growth made a huge difference, and I’m so glad I found them.”
This story exemplifies why New Growth exists. Starting or growing a business in rural areas can be challenging, with fewer resources and support systems readily available. That’s where New Growth comes in—connecting both farm and non-farm businesses or potential business owners in counties across the west central Missouri area with resources they may not know about, such as microloans, business support, and networks. By providing these essential tools, New Growth helps businesses succeed here faster, strengthening our communities and creating jobs today and for the next generation.
Levi’s story is a testament to this mission. With the help of New Growth’s microlending program, he secured the funding he needed to launch his business, creating a job for himself. And in time, we hope Midwest Plains Drone will expand, generating more jobs and contributing even further to the success of his small rural community. That’s the power of connection and support, and it’s what New Growth strives to achieve every day.
If you'd like to inquire about Levi's drone service, you can reach him by phone 660-464-2401
Or find Midwest Plains Drone on Facebook
