Member Spotlight- FCI Inc.

For more than 60 years, FCI, Inc. has served farmers across North Carolina, building relationships that have stood the test of time. "Our grower customer has always been our focus," FCI President Dooie Leach states. "When we nurture, you grow."

Since the beginning, relationships have always been at the heart of the business.

"My earliest memories are centered around farming, agricultural services, and relationships with farmers," Leach said.

Even throughout difficult times, such as when Dooie unexpectedly stepped into leadership following the loss of his father, the responsibility felt overwhelming.

"I did not feel prepared, and I was extremely afraid," he recalled.

Yet by remaining focused on the relationships and the people they serve, the company can continue to fulfill its mission, to help growers solve problems, reduce risk and improve yields. 

That commitment to agriculture and the people they serve is an important part of FCI's relationship with AgCarolina Farm Credit and the reason it has remained strong for decades.

"AgCarolina's commitment to production agriculture is the same market that FCI serves," Leach said. "We have a synergy that comes quite naturally."

Over the years, AgCarolina has served as FCI's primary lender for fixed assets, helping the company invest in its future, while continuing to support farmers across the state. For Leach, the relationship goes beyond financing. He compliments AgCarolina's cooperative structure and the confidence that comes from knowing the organization is guided by fellow agricultural producers who understand the opportunities and challenges facing rural businesses.

"AgCarolina reflects values we too stand behind: trust, integrity, and a shared commitment to the future of agriculture," Leach said.

As agriculture continues to evolve, FCI and AgCarolina remain united by a common purpose, to support farmers, strengthen rural communities, and invest in the future of North Carolina agriculture.