Who can apply?

With the exception of Measure 3.1 Diversification into Non-Agricultural Activities, which is directed specifically at farmers and farm families, there will be a wide variety of opportunities available to individuals and community groups, non-departmental public bodies and councils. Applicant projects should be located in a rural area.

What is the maximum grant available and at what rate?

Maximum grant for PRIVATE SECTOR applicant is £50,000
This is at a rate of 50% eligible costs; i.e. your project would need to be in excess of £100,000 to apply for the maximum grant available.Maximum grant for

NON DEPARTMENTAL PUBLIC BODY / COUNCIL / SOCIAL ECONOMY SECTOR / COMMUNITY ORGANISATION applicant is £250,000. This is at a rate of 75% eligible costs; i.e. your project would need to be in excess of £333,000 to apply for the maximum grant available.

What types of projects can’t be funded? (This is not an exhaustive list)

• Retail (except where integral part of production facility or farm shop)
• Mainstream agricultural/horticultural activities
• Mobile Infrastructure (except specialised infrastructure for specific project requirements)
• Any activity that could be funded by another body
• Running costs, for example, heat, light etc
• Employment costs e.g. some salaries (subject to ongoing discussions with DARD)
• Service or distribution businesses, unless they are innovative in your area
• Projects where there is a clear statutory responsibility
• Projects that create economic displacement
• Projects that have negative environmental impacts
• Annual or recurring events (the programme can only consider new events)
• Provision of additional bed and breakfast bed spaces
• Private dwellings
• Retrospective Funding is not eligible - you must not start your project until you receive and accept a Letter of Offer from Lagan Rural Partnership
• Projects based in the urban areas