10 March deadline nears for FBIS applications

Farmers and growers are reminded that the extended date to submit applications for Tier 2 of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital (FBIS - C) is fast approaching.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs gave farmers and growers more time to submit their Tier 2 applications by extending the closing date for Tranche 1 to 4.00pm on 10 March 2017. 

The Department is urging prospective applicants to ensure that they have met all the requirements for the Tier 2 application process.

Applicants are reminded that they must include, or upload if submitting online, all the additional supporting information and permissions required for the Tier 2 application process. 

If you are unsure of any aspect of the application process and need assistance, advice on the FBIS Capital Scheme - Tier 2 is available on the DAERA website.  

Or, you can email: tier2@daera-ni.gov.uk or call the helpline on: 0845 026 7535.

Notes to editors: 

1. Applications for Tier 2, Tranche 1 of the FBIS – Capital Scheme were accepted from 4.00pm on the 19 December 2016. The original closing date for receipt of applications was 4.00pm on 24 February 2017 but this was extended to 10 March to give prospective applicants more time to complete their applications, in particular their business plans.
2. The focus of Tier 2 is on larger-scale investment to encourage a step change in the agriculture and horticulture sectors and to drive transformational investment in future-proofed, fit-for-purpose, modern infrastructure and equipment, guided by a robust business planning process within assisted farms
3. Tier 2 is for projects costing from £30,000 - unlimited (with £250,000 maximum grant for the FBIS Capital overall) and is primarily for construction projects and the purchase of higher value equipment linked to the needs in the farmer’s business plan.
4. Applicants to Tier 2 will be required to submit a separate robust, viable and sustainable business plan as part of their application, which shows that they have carefully planned their investment and what difference the proposed project will make in transforming their farm into a more sustainable, efficient and safer business.
5. For Tier 2 specific queries, help is available by email at tier2@daera-ni.gov.uk and in addition, applicants may call the Helpline on 0845 026 7535.
6. All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office on 028 9052 4619 or email DAERA Press Office. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.
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