Deadline extended for Tier 2 applications to Capital Scheme

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is giving farmers and growers more time to submit Tier 2 applications for the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital.

Recognising that Tier 2 applications will be for larger-scale transformational projects that require some time and commitment to complete, the closing date for Tier 2 applications has been extended to 4.00pm on 10 March 2017. 

This extension will allow farmers and growers who are currently working on their applications extra time to complete them, in particular their business plans. In addition, it will allow applicants to fully engage with their banks/lending institutions and work towards meeting the additional supporting information or permissions required for the application process.

DAERA has provided information and tools on the DAERA website to assist prospective applicants in examining the viability of potential projects.

Furthermore, applicants may visit the Frequently Asked Questions page of the DAERA website or send questions by email to tier2@daera-ni.gov.uk.

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 and the original closing date for receipt of applications was 4.00pm on 24 February 2017. 
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. Advice on the application process for Tier 2 applications to Tranche 1 of the FBIS – Capital Scheme is available on the DAERA website. 
6. For Tier 2 specific queries, help is also available by email at tier2@daera-ni.gov.uk In addition, applicants may visit the Frequently Asked Questions page of the DAERA website.
7. All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office on 028 9052 4619 or email DAERA Press Office:  pressoffice.group@daera-ni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned. Follow us on Twitter @daera_ni.

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