Local farmers are being urged to think like entrepreneurs, before the money runs out for a grant scheme designed to launch diversification business ventures.
The Farm Diversification Scheme has already awarded grants of up to £10,000 to 15 farmers across Powys. The Dragons’ Den style project aims to help traditional farming families to take the plunge into non-agricultural diversifications to create or safeguard jobs and give additional income streams for the future.
Applicants can ask for up to 60% of project costs and the next closing date is February 8.
Sally Shiels, Project Manager, said: "We have already given out 25% of the total funding available and the rest is likely to go in the next six months. It’s a competitive scheme, so if a farming family member has a good business idea, they really need to get in touch this Spring or they might miss out."
Successful applications so far have included a shepherd’s hut holiday accommodation, firewood processor, marquee wedding site preparation, self-catering business website, equestrian arena and livery facilities. Other areas for diversification ideas could be farm shops or e-commerce, added-value food products, catering services, craft products, and office or workshop developments.
Grants can be used towards the costs to develop redundant buildings, groundworks, equipment, bilingual websites and marketing materials. Existing diversified farm businesses can also apply.
The project is part-funded through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013 which is financed by the European Union and the Welsh Assembly Government. Applications to the Farm Diversification Scheme are assessed by a Strategic Management Board under the Powys Regeneration Partnership.
A series of workshops is planned for next month on added-value woodland opportunities. For more information on the Farm Diversification Scheme contact the Project Officer Laura Shewring on 01982 553305 or email
farm.diversification@powys.gov.uk