From one forage harvester to a multi-crew operation serving dairy producers across the country, Tim Woeste has built his business by acting on opportunity—and scaling with financing designed to support growth.

Tim formed Upper Midwest Pumping in 2011 and expanded in 2015 into custom forage harvesting, with Tim Woeste Custom Harvesting, turning a market opportunity into a second thriving business.

“When I saw the opportunity to expand, I knew it was the right move, but figuring out how to actually fund that growth was the biggest question,” Tim said.

The Right Capital Changes Everything

For growing operations, Tim knew access to capital could either accelerate progress or limit it. But, traditional lenders often require significant down payments and fixed monthly payment structures that don’t align with seasonal revenue cycles. For Tim, that created a barrier to scaling his business efficiently.

Northland Capital provided a different approach.

Tim commented, “One of the biggest things for my business is flexibility around payment structure. It allows me to make payments during the months when my business is bringing in income and preserve cash for operational expenses in the off-season.”

With low, and in many cases no down payment options, Tim was able to acquire equipment and put it to work immediately. That access allowed him to take on additional jobs and expand his operation without delaying growth due to upfront capital constraints.

Today, Tim runs eight crews and a 35-person operation serving dairy farmers nationwide, from Georgia to Montana, throughout the March-to-November season.

Speed and Simplicity When It Matters Most

In Tim’s business, timing directly impacts profitability. During a harvest in western Minnesota, wet field conditions threatened to stall the job—until Tim reached out to his financing partner, Paul Pfannenstein at Northland Capital. Within a day, financing was approved and a truck was on its way to pick up the two dump carts he needed. That speed and responsiveness made all the difference.

Tim emphasized, “What stands out about Northland is how quick and easy the whole financing process is. They understand the urgency of getting equipment when you need it better than other lenders.”

A Relationship That Drives Results

Beyond financing, the relationship itself has been a defining factor.

Tim was first introduced to Northland Capital through an equipment dealer while purchasing a drop deck trailer, for hauling manure pumping equipment. What began as a single transaction has evolved into a long-term partnership, one that goes beyond financing to support both of his businesses.

Working with a partner who understands the operational realities of his business and can respond quickly has allowed Tim to make confident decisions in time-sensitive situations.

Reflecting on his relationship with Tim, Paul said, “It’s never just about financing a piece of equipment, it’s about understanding how his operation runs and being there when it matters. When you take the time to build that kind of relationship, you’re not just reacting to needs, you’re helping keep the business moving forward.”

A Better Way to Finance Equipment

For Tim, the difference is clear: Northland Capital delivers financing solutions designed around how his business actually operates, flexible payment structures, low or no down payment options, and a process that is both simple and efficient. Combined with fast response times and a relationship grounded in understanding and trust, it’s an approach that supports both day-to-day operations and long-term growth.

Northland Capital is the reason we keep doing what we're doing, day in and day out,

and the reason we are where we are today.

Tim Woeste