Register for Horticulture Sector Innovation Support
Date published:
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has invited horticulture production businesses across Northern Ireland to submit expressions of interest for a new support initiative designed to drive innovation and strengthen the growth of the sector.
The Innovation Driver and Support Pilot Scheme, forms part of DAERA’s Sustainable Agriculture Programme, which brings together a coordinated range of policies and schemes aimed at supporting a thriving and resilient agri-food industry.
The scheme is designed to support innovative investment by commercial horticulture businesses. It will provide financial assistance for investment in crops, technologies and production systems that are new to Northern Ireland and demonstrate strong potential to support long-term sustainable growth.
Minister Muir said: “This Horticulture Pilot Scheme is an integral element of DAERA’s Sustainable Agriculture Programme, which is designed to strengthen the resilience and long-term sustainability of the agri-food sector.
“I am pleased that my Department is supporting commercial horticulture businesses in adopting innovative practices and technologies that will help drive the sector’s sustainable growth and competitiveness. I would encourage any eligible business seeking to future-proof its production to submit an expression of interest.”
Applications will be subject to selection criteria to ensure that proposals with the greatest potential impact are prioritised, with funding limited to one successful application per business. 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 closes on 4 September 2026 and will be used to gauge industry interest and determine eligibility. It is anticipated that a full application process will follow in the autumn.
Further details on the Innovation Driver and Support Pilot Scheme, including guidance on how to submit an Expression of Interest, are available on the Business Support area of the CAFRE website.
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