Farmers will be able to apply for the Farm Business Grant from next Wednesday, September 1, as the Welsh Government has announced a new expression of interest window.

Welsh farmers who are thinking of making improvements to their farms are urged to plan ahead and consider the grant which could help them to invest in new technology and equipment.

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths, said a budget of £2m will be available for farmers to help improve their technical, financial and environmental performance.

The expression of interest window will run from Wednesday, September 1, to Friday, October 1, and successful applicants will have four months to purchase and claim for the items supported.

The Farm Business Grant comes from funds remaining within the Rural Development Programme. It provides grants from £3,000 to £12,000, which offer a maximum fourty per cent contribution and allow farmers to make important investments in their businesses to support production efficiencies and improve productivity.

The grant provides funding towards the cost of a wide range of equipment, from handling systems and technology for precision farming to tools for more efficient use of resources.

Mark Lord, a consultant with Berrys consultancy business, says it is important farmers plan to ensure they meet the deadline. “Competition for the Farm Business Grant will be high, so if you are thinking about investing in some farm equipment or technology do your homework now.

“This is a great opportunity for those that are eligible to get help funding technology and equipment that could improve the efficiency and sustainability of their business.

“We have business consultants that will help farmers prepare their applications and we can advise on the information that will be needed, so don’t delay getting in touch if you wish to apply.”

Lesley Griffiths added “I know this will be welcomed by many. I would urge farmers with an interest to start thinking now of the improvements they want to make and how the grant could help them, so they are able to put in a strong expression of interest within the timescales and which meets their needs.”

CORRECTION: In the original article, we said that it would offer a maximum four per cent contribution due to a typo. It is in fact 40% - we're sorry for any confusion.