A pioneer of ethical banking in France, la Nef is recognized for the transparency of its funding, which includes only projects with an ecological, social or cultural focus.
Created in the 1980s, at a time when the organic sector was seen as a risky and niche market, La Nef was one of the few structures to bet on it by placing its trust in the actors involved and by directing citizen savings directly towards an organic and healthy mode of production.
Today, La Nef supports the entire sector, including:
● Production (installation and transition): Land and equipment financing for entrepreneurs setting up organic farms or traditional farms converting to organic.
● The transformation: Loans granted to organic bakeries, organic cosmetics, craft breweries, etc.
● Specialized distribution: Support for the opening of independent stores, bulk grocery stores, short distribution networks (AMAP, farm drive-throughs) and groups like BioCoop or Les Comptoirs de la Bio in their early days.
The support provided by La Nef to the organic sector in 2025 represents 300 job creations and 137 funded projects, representing 27% of the total number of projects funded by the cooperative during this period!
Thanks to their expertise, La Nef's bankers understand the specific characteristics and requirements of the organic sector and know how to adapt to their clients' needs. During periods of economic difficulty, La Nef prioritizes human support rather than withdrawal, remaining true to its values and commitment, and deploys as well as cash flow support measures when necessary (temporary suspension of certain repayments, implementation of short-term financing adapted to organic businesses, etc.)
We also had the opportunity to speak with Coralie Persiani, Director of the Commercial Network and member of the Executive Board of la Nef :
Hello Coralie. Could you introduce yourself briefly?
I am Coralie Persiani, Sales Director and member of the Board of Directors of La Nef. I am responsible for the entire sales network of our cooperative in the business and consumer market.
After 15 years in traditional banking and business consulting, I joined La Nef in 2015. For 9 years, I managed various departments before being appointed in 2024 to the commercial management and then to the executive board.
Joining La Nef has been a unique opportunity to do banking differently, in line with my values: we advocate responsible and transparent finance, whose main mission is to finance real economy projects with ecological, social or cultural added value.
After several years of tension, the organic market is showing signs of recovery. How do you interpret this new momentum?
We are indeed seeing a resumption of growth in the market fororganic foodAfter the turbulence experienced since 2021, this momentum demonstrates the remarkable resilience of the sector and a renewed commitment from consumers.
Organic producers who have successfully adapted their business model, maintained their trust with consumers, and stayed the course are now seeing their efforts bear fruit. This signals that the sector has entered a new phase of maturity.
How is La Nef committed to supporting the organic sector?
The Nef has a historical link with organic farming. Even at the height of the crisis, we made the choice never to disengage: we supported the sector by continuing to finance creation and development, but also by providing support and implementing concrete solutions for struggling organizations.
Our commitment is based on:
– A dedicated team We have two sector experts dedicated to the organic industry, who have a very detailed understanding of the challenges and economic constraints of the sector. They also support our sales teams in the field.
– A long-term partnership We are not just funders, but true partners. We continue to finance development while standing by those going through more difficult times.
– A positive impact : the money entrusted to La Nef is entirely earmarked for the ecological and social transition, in complete transparency.
What advice would you give to companies in the organic sector?
My first piece of advice is not to face difficulties alone. Breaking isolation, opening up and exchanging with peers is fundamental: the experience of some can greatly help and inspire others.
I also recommend that companies leverage industry networks and experts.. Clusters, professional associations, trade shows like NatexpoBut advice from professionals (lawyers, accountants) is also essential to gain the necessary perspective and inform decisions. Don't wait until your cash flow is strained to discuss it. Discussing difficulties with your banker as soon as they arise allows you to develop tailored solutions in a climate of trust.
What is your vision for La Nef? What are your future projects?
Our vision is to continue our historical support for the organic sector, remaining true to our mission as an ethical and transparent bank.
We will continue to fund the creation and development of projects around organic farming, while maintaining close support for structures that still need it.
A current account with a bank card will be available from autumn at La Nef for all committed professionals who wish to join us.
We are continuing our journey to become the only ethical bank in France. We offer a responsible and humane alternative to all citizens, businesses, and associations who are making or want to make a difference.
For more information, please visit the Nef website: https://www.lanef.com/
