2023 Scheme of Investment Aid for Energy Efficiency, Automation and Processing by Commercial Mushroom Producers

This scheme is intended to assist in increasing the efficiency and sustainability of mushroom growing by grant aiding capital investments in specialised plant and equipment to micro, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) active in the mushroom sector, namely primary agricultural production. The following investments are eligible:

• renewable energy sources for mushroom farms, packhouses and processing plants
• automation and efficiencies in mushroom farms and packhouses
• the infrastructure to produce mushroom-based meat free foods and powders

The scheme's objectives are to improve productivity and efficiency in the sector in order to mitigate the impact of inefficiencies caused by Brexit.

The Scheme will provide capital grant aid at a rate of up to 40% to all approved investments with qualifying young farmers receiving up to 60% grant aid.

The scheme is aimed at those engaging in commercial mushroom production.

Applications should be made on an official Application Form and submitted with the required documentation.

The deadline for receipt of completed applications is midnight on Friday 28 July 2023.

Aid will be payable at the maximum rate of 40% (at a maximum rate of 60% in the case of eligible young farmers) on the accepted net cost of investments approved and completed to the satisfaction of the department. The minimum investment which will be considered for grant aid is €10,000 excluding VAT.

Queries regarding the Scheme should be directed to:

• phone: 01 5058886
• email: mushroomgrants@agriculture.gov.ie