Funding for young farmers

YOUNG people seeking to establish a career in agriculture could benefit from £2.5 million in Scottish Government funding.

The grant funding has been awarded to develop the next generation of farmers and will benefit 47 new agricultural businesses.

Rural secretary Fergus Ewing insisted it was ‘crucial’ to bring new talent to the industry, adding: ‘Overcoming barriers to entry and attracting new entrants to farming is vital for the sustainability of the industry.

‘New entrants drive innovation and best practice, improve efficiencies and contribute towards the economic vitality of the sector.’

The application window for the Young Farmer and New Entrant Start-up Grant scheme closes on September 30 2017.