Boost for traditional local farming

 

Scheme Manager Sally Shiels and project officer Laura Shewring will be attending shows across the county this summer, including YFC events, to publicise the project and to talk through the grants, mentoring and workshops on offer.

 

Sally explained: “We can help farming families from Powys to sustain their traditional farm business by exploring non-agricultural diversification options. As examples, we’ve already had ideas put forwards for conversions of barn buildings into holiday accommodation, luxury ‘glamping’ campsites, renewable energy installations, wedding reception venues and e-commerce business websites.”

 

The Farm Diversification Scheme will be a competitive application process, with closing dates every two months from this month to March 2013, or while funds remain. The Scheme can offer up to 60% funding for projects, to a maximum grant of £10,000.

 

Grant recipients will be supported with a one-to-one mentoring session to help develop their project and Glasu will also be organising a programme of workshops and case study visits, open to all local farmers, to showcase diversification ideas.

 

“We’re looking forward to helping many farmers get their ideas off the ground and provide new employment for family members,” said Sally. “The long-term impact of the Scheme could be really important for the local rural economy.”

 

The Farm Diversification Scheme is funded through the Rural Development Plan for Wales. Glasu is also interested in hearing from local farmers with innovative ideas that need market research or piloting.