Countryside Agri-Rural Partnership

What is the Farm Modernisation Programme?

Farm Modernisation Programme (FMP) aims to contribute to the competitiveness of agricultural and horticultural farm businesses in Northern Ireland. This will be achieved by providing financial support to existing farm businesses to improve the overall performance of their farm through modernisation under six key priority investment areas:

Introduction of new technologies and innovation;
Improved animal health and welfare;
Increased hygiene control and product storage;
Enhanced occupational safety and business efficiency;
Increased energy efficiency; and
Enhanced environmental status.

The enhancing the environmental status of farms priority investment area will receive additional assistance under a sub theme - the Manure Efficiency Technology Scheme (METS). Under this scheme 40% aid, capped at £10,000 per farm business, will be available on a limited list of slurry / manure handling equipment. The Axis 1 budget allocated to Farm Modernisation (including METS) is £15.25M.

Who can apply?

Agricultural and horticultural farm businesses that have a Category 1 DARD Farm Business Identification number are eligible to apply.

When will the FMP open for receipt of applications?

Funding under the FMP will be delivered over a series of application periods or tranches:

FMP Tranche 1 closed for applications on Tuesday 31 March 2009, and all awards for funding under this tranche have been made.
FMP Tranche 2 closed for receipt of applications at 4.00pm on Friday 26 November 2010, and successful applicants have now been issued with a Letter of Offer.
It is proposed that a 3rd Tranche of FMP will be announced in due course.

FMP Tranche 2: Frequently Asked Questions