New round of funding for farming
Grants of up to £20,000 to help farmers and crofters invest in their businesses and modernise operations will open for applications from this forthcoming winter.
At least 725 farming and crofting businesses will share £14.25 million as part of the next round of the Future Farming Investment Scheme.
The funding programme was announced by First Minister John Swinney, who is visiting agricultural shows to hear directly from farmers, crofters, agricultural workers and rural stakeholders as the Scottish Government develops its Rural Renewal Bill.
It will support a range of initiatives, including improving soil quality, creating hedgerows and upgrading livestock management infrastructure.
New entrants to farming, businesses based in the Highlands and Islands and projects delivering environmental benefits will be eligible for enhanced rates of support.
Mr Swinney said: “Farmers and crofters play a vital role in producing food, supporting jobs and caring for our natural environment.
“That is why we are doing everything we can to ensure rural Scotland and our food and drink sector continue to thrive. This funding will have far-reaching benefits for agricultural businesses.”
Mr Swinney continued: “It will help farmers and crofters invest in new equipment, modernise their operations and respond to the challenges posed by climate change, including increasingly frequent extreme weather events.”
“The next round of this scheme has been shaped by feedback from farmers and crofters and reflects our commitment to supporting a competitive, sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.”