Innovation Driver and Support Horticulture Pilot Scheme
Date published:
Horticulture production businesses across Northern Ireland are invited to submit an Expression of Interest for the Innovation Driver and Support Scheme, which is part of the Horticulture Pilot Scheme. This new initiative has been developed to help businesses explore innovative opportunities, strengthen resilience, and support the long-term sustainable growth of the horticulture sector.
The Innovation Driver and Support Scheme forms part of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA’s) Sustainable Agriculture Programme, which brings together a range of measures designed to support a thriving and resilient agri-food industry.
Speaking about the scheme, Kieran Lavelle, Senior Horticulture Adviser, CAFRE, said: “This pilot scheme offers financial support to horticultural businesses interested in adopting crops, systems or technologies that are new to Northern Ireland. The aim is to help businesses improve both productivity and sustainability while encouraging innovation across the sector.
“We recognise that developing and introducing innovative ideas can be challenging, and this scheme provides an opportunity for businesses to take those important next steps. Rather than providing a prescribed list of projects, we encourage businesses to demonstrate how their proposal could contribute to future growth and development.
“I am delighted that commercial horticulture businesses now have an opportunity to access 40% funding up to a purchase price of £625,000 alongside agronomy, supply chain and business adviser support, to help them explore new possibilities, strengthen competitiveness, and build for the future.”
Applications will be assessed against selection criteria to ensure proposals with the greatest potential impact will be prioritised. Funding will be limited to one successful application per business, and multiple applications for the same crop, technology, or system will not be supported.
The application process will be delivered in two stages. The Expression of Interest phase will remain open until 4 September 2026 and will be used to assess industry interest and determine eligibility. A full application process will follow in the autumn.
Further information on the Innovation Driver and Support Pilot Scheme, including guidance on submitting an Expression of Interest, is available on the Business Support area of the CAFRE website.
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