SEEDA provides £2.5m grant for improving sustainability and profitability of farms
26 February 2010ALL farmers throughout the South East and London can now apply for capital grants of up to £25,000 to help improve the sustainability and economic performance of their farms.
The grants are provided under the Farm Resource Improvement Programme as part of the Rural Development Programme for England and managed by SEEDA. The total amount of funding available through the Programme is £2.5m across 2010/11.
The grants will improve farmers’ profitability and competitiveness by helping them to invest in technologies that will promote the efficient use of energy, manure and water resources, or improve animal health and welfare. The funding could also be used to buy certain items of capital equipment to improve the resource efficiency and competitive performance of their business.
Paul Lovejoy, Executive Director Strategy at SEEDA, comments: “The Farm Resource Improvement Programme will help farmers to meet the climate change priorities of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and customers’ desire for more sustainable products. It encourages farmers to respond to climate change and provides a platform for sustainable growth and increased profitability.”
Farmers can apply for grants of 40-50% of the cost of eligible expenditure up to a maximum grant of £25,000.
Rupert Ashby, Director South East for the Country Land & Business Association commented: "We're delighted that SEEDA is increasing access to grant support for farmers throughout the region, which will significantly benefit our members. We hope that farmers take up the opportunities now available to them."
William White, Regional Director for the National Farmers Union, concludes: "The simplified application process for the Farm Resource Improvement Programme means that ordinary farmers and growers seeking grants to assist with animal health and welfare, nutrient management, energy efficiency and water management, need not be apprehensive about applying for these funds."
Farmers wishing to apply for funding should contact Helen Dallas on 01483 484 297 or visit www.seeda.co.uk and click on Rural Development Programme for England under the ‘Quick Links’ section.
Ends
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