FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 30, 2026
UnCommon Farms and First Financial Bank Announce Strategic Partnership to Connect Progressive Farm Operations with Specialized Agricultural Lending
Brighton, Illinois & El Dorado, Arkansas
Partnership gives UnCommon Farms members preferred access to First Financial Bank’s Farm & Ranch lending expertise, financial advisory resources, and specialized agricultural financing solutions.
UnCommon Farms, a nationwide network of progressive farm businesses and agricultural business experts, today announced a strategic partnership with First Financial Bank, a nationally recognized agricultural lender and FSA Preferred Lender in all 50 states. Through this collaboration, UnCommon Farms members gain access to First Financial Bank’s Farm & Ranch division, a team with over 100 years of combined lending experience, bringing specialized financing for land acquisition, operation refinancing, equipment and building leasing, and long-term capital planning to some of the most successful farm operations across the country.
The partnership connects two organizations that share a core belief: that progressive farm businesses deserve financial partners who understand agriculture from the inside out. UnCommon Farms members average approximately 10,000 acres in production and are actively investing in strategic planning, succession, and long-term business infrastructure, the exact profile of producer that First Financial Bank’s Farm & Ranch team is built to serve.
First Financial Bank is already off to a strong start as a partner, attending UnCommon Farms’ financial peer group meeting in July, putting their advisors in direct conversation with member decision-makers at one of UCF’s most engaged member touchpoints.
“Finding the right financial partner isn’t something we take lightly,” said Madison Erickson, Strategic Relationship Business Partner at UnCommon Farms. “First Financial Bank’s Farm & Ranch team brings the kind of depth and relationship-first approach that fits our community
well. Having them join our financial peer group right out of the gate says a lot about how they show up, and I think our members are going to value that.”
“We are excited to partner with UnCommon Farms,” said Aaron Miller, Managing Director – Farm & Ranch Lending Division at First Financial Bank. “UnCommon Farms values the same relationship-based service we provide our clients. It’s important for us to be a supportive partner in the ag industry, and we appreciate UnCommon Farms for allowing us to be their strategic partner.”
Together, First Financial Bank and UnCommon Farms are building a partnership rooted in education, trusted relationships, and long-term value for the producers who are shaping the future of agriculture.
About UnCommon Farms
UnCommon Farms supports producers across North America by providing the expertise, resources, and community they need to build profitable, sustainable farming operations. Through business coaching, peer networks, and strategic partnerships, UnCommon Farms helps members secure their legacy and position their operations for long-term, multi-generational success. Learn more at uncommonfarms.com.
About First Financial Bank
First Financial Bank, founded in 1934, is a trusted and reliable financial partner for individuals and businesses. With a mission to provide personalized and innovative solutions, First Financial Bank offers a comprehensive suite of financial products and services delivered with unmatched service. Whether you’re looking to open a new checking account, finance a farm, expand your small business, or invest for the future, First Financial Bank is in the Business of YOU.
Contact Information
UnCommon Farms
Matt Huelskamp, Marketing and Brand Manager
Phone: 618-372-7400
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.uncommonfarms.com
First Financial Bank
Amber Murphy, VP-Marketing Director
Phone: 870-863-7000
Website: www.ffb1.com