Apply now to join a CAFRE Business Sustainability Group
Date published:
By Judith McCord, Senior Dairy Adviser, CAFRE
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) encourages farmers to apply to the Business Sustainability Groups (BSG) Scheme.
The first year of the BSG Scheme has drawn to a close after a productive first year of meetings. As the college prepares to deliver another year of support Judith McCord, Senior Dairy Adviser at CAFRE says: “If you missed the opportunity to apply to for a BSG last year, the new intake to the scheme will offer new farmers the chance to benefit from expert guidance, peer learning, and practical support.”
Building on a strong first year
The first year of the BSGs has clearly demonstrated the value of collaboration, with members working closely together and alongside CAFRE Advisers to improve both business performance and environmental outcomes.
Group members have been sharing knowledge and observing on-farm technologies which are helping improve economic and environmental sustainability on farm. These practical insights have enabled farmers to identify efficiencies and adopt new practices with confidence. “Being in a BSG helps me to meet and see other similar farmers that are trying new things, some which I’ve been able to adopt on my home farm” Arron Haffey, Dairy farmer from Portadown.
The groups, led by CAFRE Advisers, aim to use peer-to-peer learning as a key driver to help farmers navigate and comply with both current and future challenges associated with DAERA policy. Having a supportive environment has enabled business performance to be benchmarked, areas of improvement to be made and managed alongside enhancing environmental input which will strengthen long term profitability.
Now, with lessons learned and momentum built, the programme is moving into its second year with even greater opportunities for participants.
What the Scheme offers
The BSGs are designed to help farmers improve both financial performance and environmental outcomes. Those who join can expect:
- Facilitated group meetings with like-minded farmers
- One-to-one support from CAFRE Advisers
- Opportunities to visit other farms
- Guidance on improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability practices
- Support in meeting changing policy and environmental requirements
Why join now?
Judith McCord, Senior Dairy Adviser, highlights why farmers should join a BSG.
“With increasing pressures on the agricultural sector from rising costs to climate challenges and policy changes, being part of a support network has never been more important.”
The opening of the scheme for another intake offers a valuable opportunity for those who did not participate in year one to get involved. Whether you are looking to improve technical performance, reduce costs, or future-proof your business, the CAFRE BSGs provide a structured pathway.
How to apply
Applications are open until Monday 29 June. Farmers interested in joining should visit the CAFRE website.
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