Funding for young Scottish farmers

Over £7 million has been awarded to help create and develop around 140 new farming businesses across Scotland.

It is hoped that the next generation of farmers will gain increased opportunities to establish a career in agriculture, attracting a steady flow of young and new farmers to build growth in the rural economy.

Fergus Ewing, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity, said: “It is crucial that there is a steady inflow of young and new entrants to farming, not only to promote competition and encourage productivity, but also to ensure the sector remains sustainable over the long-term.

“With the average age of Scottish farmers currently sitting at 58, it is vital that we provide support for entrepreneurs in the critical early stages. That is why I am delighted to announce a further £1.8 million in grant funding to support a further 35 new farm enterprises. This brings the total support from the EU and Scottish Government to over £7 million, supporting the development and creation of around 140 new farms all over Scotland.”

The funding will be jointly provided by the EU and the Scottish government.