The Scottish Government’s young and new farmer grant schemes are now open for applications. Farmers have from 1 April until 30 September to make applications to the Young Farmers Start-Up grant and the New Entrants Start-Up grant scheme.

Young Farmers Start-up Grant

This grant scheme awards successful applications up to €70,000 in two instalments over a maximum of four years. Farmers must be under 41 years old at the time of applying and be setting up as head of the holding for the first time. They must also either have an agricultural qualification or show five years’ experience in agriculture. Furthermore applicants must either have three hectares of land or show their business plan involves acquiring at least three hectares of land over four years.

New Entrants Start-Up Grant Scheme

Farmers can get up to €15,000 from this scheme, paid in two tranches over a four year period. There is no upper age limit but applicants must be within a year of starting their agricultural business. Applicants must have a minimum of three hectares of land at their disposal.

Both grants award money for core agricultural activities as part of a business plan. For example this could be the purchase of livestock.

This is a competitive scheme where not all eligible applications will be successful. Previously 180 successful applicants to both schemes shared £9million of funding. Those interested should check the Scottish Government website or contact their local department office.