If you are considering changing or improving your rural business or enterprise, and thinking of applying to Defra for grant assistance, then you may benefit from attending one of Defra`s workshops that are taking place from January to July 2004.

Workshops will include topics such as
> Introduction to Project Based Schemes
> Processing of applications
> Preparation of a successful Business Plan
> Opportunity for discussion and questions

Dates for these workshops can be found in the Calendar of Events section of this web site. 

Once you have attended a workshop, or where project ideas are more advanced, you may need further individual feedback - if this is the case, please telephone 01902 693201 to make an appointment with an RDS project advisor.

The England Rural Development Programme (ERDP) underpins Government`s New Direction for Agriculture by helping farmers and foresters to respond to consumer requirements and become more competitive, diverse, flexible and environmentally responsible. It also provides help to rural businesses and communities, which need to adapt and develop.

The Rural Enterprise Scheme (RES) provides assistance cor projects that help to develop more sustainable, diversified and enterprising rural economies and communities. The schemes can help farmers adapt to changing markets and develop new business opportunities in addition to supporting the adaptation and development of the rural economy, community, heritage and environment. The scheme covers a very broad spectrum of potentially eligible activities, ranging from those designed to produce a commercial return, to those where the promary aim is to provide social and/or environmental benefits.

Processing and Marketing Grants (PMG) enable capital investment in processing and marketing of primary agricultural products. The scheme seeks to encourage farmers to becomre more competitive, respond to consumer demand, be more innovative and add value to their produce. Projects might, for example, produce new or innovative products, improve the quality of existing products, improve or rationalise processing facilities. Grants will be available toweard the cost of new buildings, the refurbishment of old buildings and the purchase of new equipment.

The new Vocational Training Scheme (VTS) provides funding for training that contributes to an improvement in the occupational skill and competence of farmers and others involved in farming and forestry activities and their diversification.

For further information about any of these workshops, please contact Defra`s Rural Development Service on 01902 693201