Farmers in Powys have been urged to “think like Dragon’s Den entrepreneurs”, and capitalise on the opportunities presented by a grant scheme designed to help them or their families launch diversification business ventures.

image expired

The Farm Diversification Scheme has already allocated 25 per cent of its funding to successful applicants; 15 farmers across the county have been awarded grants of up to £10,000. The scheme aims to help traditional farming families diversify their businesses with non-agricultural diversifications or additions to the business to secure income for the future and create or maintain jobs.

Applicants can receive up to 60 per cent of a project’s total cost; the next closing date is 8th February. The scheme’s managers have said that the remainder of the funding is likely to go by the spring, so farmers need to act fast. Ideas for diversifications include holiday accommodation, equestrian facilities, farm shops or e-commerce and creating added-value food products or catering services.

The project is being funded by the Welsh government and the EU under the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-13. Farmers or family members interested in the scheme should contact farm.diversification@powys.gov.uk

Tweet