NEW PROGRAMME
The Business Support and Innovation team are running an Agri-Innovation programme funded by the Satellite Applications Catapult as part of the Environmental Space Living Lab for the rest of Devon. There are limited spaces left available on our funded programme in the South Hams and West Devon, further details below.
The new programme offers bespoke support for farmers in Devon to maximise their potential and productivity through satellite technologies, regenerative practices, innovation and sustainability. The programme will support 13 farm businesses. Each business is entitled to 18 hours of one-to one support from an experienced Agri-Advisor and up to £1500 of specialist support.
Apply by completing the Expression of Interest form on the Business Information Point website. The deadline for Expressions of Interest is the 30th of July.
What is the Intensive Agri innovation programme?
The Agri Innovation programme aims to support farm businesses to maximise their potential through regenerative and innovative practices which promote healthy soil and reduce carbon emissions. The programme will also allow farmers to explore innovative opportunities and trial new technologies.
How do I apply?
To apply, please complete the Expression of Interest form on the Business Information Point (BIP) website.
How is it being funded?
The Devon wide programme is funded by the Satellite Applications Catapult as part of the Environmental Space Living Lab .
The West Devon and South Hams programme is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). It will support 20 farms in the South Hams and another 20 in West Devon.
The Agri Innovation programme is fully funded meaning that the support is free for farmers to access.
How is the support being delivered?
Support is being delivered by Business Information Point (BIP). Each farm enrolled onto the scheme will be able to access one-to one bespoke support from their dedicated Agri-Advisor. Support will be tailored to each individual farm business. Examples of the type of support farmers can access include:
- carbon audits,
- innovation diagnostics,
- help with grant applications.
Farmers participating in the programme can also access specialist support to help them implement their innovation business plan. This could consist of:
- soil testing,
- technology trials,
- carbon deep dives,
- exploring renewable energy options,
- bid writing and more.
Who is eligible?
To participate in the Devon wide Agri Innovation programme a farm business must be registered in Devon. You can check your county council area using the local council checker.
To participate in the South Hams and West Devon Agri Innovation programme a farm business must be registered in one of these two local authority areas. You can check your local council area using the local council checker.
There is no restriction on farm type or size.
How does the scheme tie in with other DCC initiatives?
Farmers that participate in the Agri Innovation programme will be able to access opportunities through the Devon Agri Tech Alliance; an initiative to connect farmers, tech companies and research organisations to facilitate knowledge exchange and opportunities for collaboration.
This programme aims to support farmers even after the programme has ended through the provision of peer-to-peer support groups.
Contact Us
To enquire about the programme, email agri-innovation@businessinfopoint.co.uk.
For questions around eligibility or knowledge exchange opportunities, speak to one of the the Project and Knowledge Exchange Manager Kelda.Salter@devon.gov.uk.
UK Shared Prosperity Fund
The £2.6 billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which succeeds the old EU structural funds will go straight to local places across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to invest in three local priorities: communities and place, support for local businesses and people and skills.
The fund has been allocated on a localised level to each of the districts in Devon. Devon is a two-tier structure, with a County Council as well as 8 district councils. This funding has been allocated on a very localised level in attempt to have area specific support relevant to each district.
