The Agri–Food Processing & Marketing Grant Scheme has reopened for applications.    

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) invites applications from micro through to intermediate sized enterprises seeking funding towards capital investment projects.  The scheme is open to those in the agri–food sector engaged in food processing activities (excluding fishery products) and to those engaged in the processing of a primary forest product or crop where the output is a renewable energy fuel.
 
Financial support is available (£500,000 maximum) towards eligible capital costs that may include the erection of new buildings, refurbishment of old buildings and the purchase of new equipment.  The funding available and the rate of grant will be determined by budget availability and the operating rules of the Rural Development Programme.
 
Applications are particularly welcome from those with a project investment of less than £125,000 (approximately £50,000 financial support).
 
Further information and an application form can be obtained from www.rdpni.info or by telephoning Rural Development Division on (028) 9052 4219 or (028) 9052 4871.  Alternatively, you can request an application form by sending an e–mail to afpinfo@dardni.gov.uk.
 
The closing date for receipt of applications is 12 noon on 24 February 2012.