Two pilot initiatives open for expressions of interest
Growers in Northern Ireland are invited to register their interest in the new Horticulture Pilot Scheme, a programme designed to help improve the production horticulture sector.
Run by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), the scheme includes three distinct initiatives
- Sustainable Sector Growth Groups Six grower groups will receive support to collaborate, increase scale, improve market access and share knowledge. Each group will have a dedicated facilitator, business and supply chain experts, and agronomy advice.
- Growers’ Training and Support This pilot offers tailored training and professional development for growers holding a Level 2 Practical Horticulture Skills Award or equivalent. Support includes expert guidance and a travel bursary.
- Innovation Driver and Support Scheduled to launch in winter 2026, this pilot will fund businesses introducing new crops, technologies or systems not currently used in Northern Ireland. Funding will be awarded competitively with tailored support for successful applicants.
The Sustainable Sector Growth Groups and the Growers’ Training and Support schemes will open for applications this autumn.
Information sessions are taking place across Northern Ireland to highlight the new initiatives.
CAFRE will hold the sessions at 6pm at the following locations
- Tuesday 23 September 2025 – Roe Valley Resort, Limavady
- Wednesday 24 September 2025 – Seagoe Hotel, Portadown
- Thursday 25 September 2025 – CAFRE, Enniskillen Campus
- Monday 29 September 2025 – join online via MS Teams
The awareness events are free to attend and will offer an opportunity to find out more about the application process, the eligibility criteria and the different types of support available.
Pre-booking for information sessions is not required.
Find out more about the Horticulture Pilot Scheme.
First published 19 September 2025
