Ministers launch schemes to assist innovation and diversification among primary producers in the horticulture sector

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue T.D, together with his colleague Senator Pippa Hackett, Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity with special responsibility for Horticulture, today announced the launch of two schemes to assist in increasing innovation and diversification among primary producers in the horticulture sector.

Minister Hackett said;

“Support for innovation and diversification is one of the key strategic actions in the National Horticulture Strategy for 2023 to 2027, so I am delighted that we have been able to get these two important schemes over the line. There is a real appetite in the horticulture sector to innovate and diversify, which will lead to improved efficiencies and productivity, and that in turn will ultimately enable greater availability of Irish-grown fruit and vegetables and displacement of imports. These schemes will be a crucial support for some of our primary producers in realising their plans to innovate and diversify, thereby helping to maximise the potential of Irish horticulture and secure its long-term viability as an integral part of the wider agriculture sector.”

Minister McConalogue added:

“The horticulture sector provides a valuable contribution to the Irish economy with a farmgate value of €566 million in 2023. The National Strategy for Horticulture 2023-2027 sets out a clear vision to grow a more profitable, value-added sector, driven by innovation and sustainability. The opening of these two schemes with a total budget of €1.35 million supports the ongoing implementation of the strategy and will provide support to growers to enable them to explore new diversification opportunities and to invest in innovative technologies.”

The 2024 Scheme for Innovation and Diversification Scheme in Horticulture (Feasibility / Desk Studies) and the 2024 Scheme for Innovation and Diversification Scheme in Horticulture (Capital Investments) are designed to assist in increasing innovation and diversification among primary producers in the horticulture sector. The 2024 Scheme for Innovation and Diversification Scheme in Horticulture (Feasibility / Desk Studies) is aimed at small and medium sized enterprises engaging in primary horticulture production that would like to innovate and diversify in the horticulture industry but need to carry out specific studies (feasibility /desk based) before doing so. The 2024 Scheme for Innovation and Diversification Scheme in Horticulture (Capital Investments) aims to increase innovation and diversification in horticulture by grant aiding capital investments in specialised plant and equipment.

Notes to Editors

The deadline for receipt of completed applications under both these schemes is midnight on Friday 23rd August 2024.

Application Forms and the Scheme Terms and Conditions can be found on the Departments Horticulture Schemes webpage or by emailing Horticulturegrants@agriculture.gov.ie