Qualifying for the Rural Enterprise Scheme (RES)

Author: Jennifer Lowe

The Rural Enterprise Scheme (RES) which was designed to provide assistance for sustainable development projects within communities.

There is a wide range of projects covered by the scheme, but the primary aim is to help farmers adapt to the changes in the market and develop their business by investigating new opportunities.

Other types of projects would include those that have the potential to produce a commercial return, or those that will provide communities with social or environmental benefits.

It can be argued that one of the main aims of RES is to promote and encourage innovation within individual communities, and as a result of this there is no specific list of projects that would be eligible. But, this doesn't mean that just any old project can benefit from this scheme.

The list of things that the scheme will look at, although somewhat vague, includes things like, financial help towards the marketing of agricultural products,set-up costs for basic community services, such as transport schemes for those that are classed as being isolated, or the conversion of old out-buildings to create small businesses like tea shops or farm shops.

The Qualification Procedure

Now although this scheme covers a potentially large array of projects, the amount of funding available is not unlimited. This means that the grants are awarded on a selective, and regional, basis.

The eligibility process is tough and all applicants have to undergo technical analysis and are compared to other projects that are similar in design and structure to ensure that the one that will provide the most benefits to the community is selected.

It is important that you remember that this scheme is only applicable to those projects in England and also excludes those people who work in areas including Cornwall, the Scilly Isles and parts of Merseyside and South Yorkshire. This is because there are other schemes in these areas that provide funding for these types of projects.

Grant Eligibility Finder

Tell us what you need funding for and we will match you with the types of UK grant most likely to accept your application.

Try our Grant Eligibility Finder free, here on this site →

The Application Process

Although there is no restrictions in place that determine when you should apply by, there is a limited budget so it is important that you submit your application as soon as possible.

Regional boards assess applications £15,000 in funding from the scheme can be fast-tracked. There are also separate procedures in place for those applications that are national and act as a mirror of projects based in single locations.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Show Me The Money

The RES fund doesn't limit the amount available to each project because it is actually intended to fill the gap between the true cost of the project and what you can realistically afford. However, the guidelines show that there are three bands for funding through RES.

Firstly, for those projects that have no, or a minimal amount of economic return the funding awarded will be between 50 per cent and 100 per cent. Projects like these, for example, would include those that are specifically designed as an aid to the community or local environment and don't necessarily provide a substantial amount of profit for the applicant.

Those projects where the return is the main objective, the amount of funding available is reduced to 30 per cent to 50 per cent. And finally, the projects that have the potential to return in excess of 25 per cent of the initial investment, then the funding is between 15 per cent to 30 per cent.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Grant Eligibility Finder lets you tell us what you need funding for and we will match you with the types of UK grant most likely to accept your application. Try it now →

140 questions

Ask Grants Expert a Question

GrantsExpert Editor 22/05/2026 at 9:15 am

@Tara Converting agricultural buildings into dwellings doesn't usually attract grants, as funding bodies tend to support working rural enterprises rather than residential conversions. The RES itself was wound up years ago, so that route isn't open. Your best bet is checking with your local council about any rural housing initiatives, and looking into VAT relief, as conversions of non-residential buildings into homes often qualify for a reduced 5% rate. Worth speaking to a specialist accountant before work starts.

Tara 18/01/2025 at 10:23 am

We currently have planning permission on our outbuildings I was just wondering if there’s any help with support for returning agricultural farm buildings into dwelling

Ruralbird 20/04/2023 at 9:21 am

Hi we are looking to convert an old farm building into a small holiday let /retreat on our small holding with emphasising the importance of the countryside / animals and mental health . Would this be something that would be looked at in this scheme ?

Rachel 07/02/2023 at 1:35 pm

Hi There,

My Father has planning permission to covert his Derelict Farm buildings into 4 dwellings. Now we have the planning permission it isn't viable for us to go ahead with converting these as the costs to do so is unrealistic in our position. Is there any grants to subsides the cost to do these buildings up? It would be such a shame to sell these on to a developer when they have been in the family for so long.

Jas 03/01/2023 at 3:00 pm

Hello. I am looking to convert an old farm barn into a village shop/restaurant. I am under the age of 30 and would like some funding for a new business idea. This shop will have access to a super charge unit for electric cars in the car park and I would like the barn to simply be a cafe/restaurant for customers to wait the car charge. Look forward to your reply. Thank you

X 05/12/2022 at 9:26 pm

Can you please email me a link to more application details for the Rural Enterprise Scheme. Many thanks

MikeD 29/11/2022 at 12:43 pm

We are looking for grant or loan funding to support the purchase and conversion of redundant farm buildings on the Isle of Wight into a sustainable bespoke manufacturing facility for our business.

Jonas 02/09/2022 at 3:14 pm

Good afternoon,
I am hoping to find grants for the conversion of outbuildings into holiday lets. There is scope in the local authority’s development framework for this type of rural conversion.
I look forward to hearing from you.

Fidget13 16/08/2022 at 6:44 pm

Hi. I'm looking for any grants to help with converting a farm building to therapy space. Used to promote mental health and wellbeing.

davec 14/07/2022 at 9:56 pm

Complete waste of time. No-one contacted or advised me about anything.

DONT WASTE YOUR TIME WITH THIS...!

lucy 13/06/2022 at 1:16 pm

Hi, I am looking to convert an old grain store into a house/living accommodation. I was wondering if there is any grants available?

Ed 02/05/2022 at 3:47 pm

Hi there. I’m looking for any grants to help pay for renovation of listed old cow sheds into holiday cottages. Based in Peak District. Thanks

jimmy 31/03/2022 at 5:40 pm

Hi I am interested in grants for conversion of old stone wall farm buildings to living accomodation

AliGeeGee 25/09/2021 at 9:22 am

Hi. I have a farm in West Yorkshire which has some semi-derelict buildings and a farm house in need of renovation. I would like to renovate for either a rental or holiday let business and if possible convert some outbuildings for a holiday overnight walkers stop over. Are there any grants for this sort of project?

CurlyB 17/07/2021 at 7:29 pm

Are there grants to convert a stable into an air b n b?

Wayne 10/05/2021 at 7:20 pm

Hi I've old stone buildings in my yard. I live in a tourist area of Northern Ireland and was wondering If there grants to help convert them to holiday self contained rentals. My funds are low and limited access to funds.

mark 04/05/2021 at 7:10 pm

We have an old cottage on our land that is in need of restoration and possible rebuild. Is there any grants available for this and how do we go about applying.

J.bakes 16/04/2021 at 5:29 pm

I have some old outbuildings I would like to convert into storage and a kitchen to run a baking/ catering business from, is there any way of helping with this?
Thanks

Davec 04/04/2021 at 8:20 pm

I have outgrown my existing port-a-cabin and sheds. Living on an old farm that is no longer a working farm, I have a number of redundant but substantial sandstone outbuildings. I would like a change-of-use to one of these to convert it to an office, warehouse and workshop. The timing is terrible just coming out of Brexit and hopefully at the tail end of the Covid-19 Pandemic. My available speculation pot has been severely curtailed just trying to survive with domestic and ongoing business expenses. I am looking for grants and financial assistance to convert the outbuilding and to relocate to such larger premises

Ben 02/04/2021 at 5:51 am

Hi,
We are the new owners of a run down farm, we are wondering how we would go about getting a grant to help us save the old cobb and stone barns for use? Many thanks
Ben

Niall 26/02/2021 at 6:11 am

Hi, we have inherited an old farm which has a few brick out buildings, they are all in need of serious tlc! Some may even need to rebuild. Is there any grants out there to fund the renovation/rebuild for diversification? We were thinking cafe/tea room for walkers and passing trade as there is a lot of both?
Thank you and look forward to hearing from you.

Niall

Evie 16/02/2021 at 3:23 pm

We are planning to create 30 acres into woods and wildflower meadow with lake and island to encourage birds. Dogs will be banned in the nature reserve. Funding help needed.

Charlie 27/01/2021 at 3:12 pm

Are there any grants for glamping pods in the Yorkshire dale national park

Oliver 14/01/2021 at 3:11 pm

Hello I am looking for a grant for beekeeping. To be used for equipment and storage. Thanks.

Gazz 09/01/2021 at 7:00 pm

Would like to create walkway/cycle paths, build tree house bring back natural water wildlife opening ponds, while small damping waterways. This is to improve overall outlook and appearance for tourists on outstanding beauty for insects and fauna, grants required to achieve this goal

Joel Carter 31/12/2020 at 12:55 pm

Hi I’m looking at a site in Dorset with the aim to set up a community small holding that would double in providing courses on all the basics people would need to start a small holding of their own. Part of this would be the conversion of barns to onsite accommodation. We would hope to heat/power most of the site with a combination of GSHP and solar PV. What aspects of this could potentially be aided with grants.

Jen 25/12/2020 at 11:03 pm

Hi I'm a Beekeeper looking to expand. I have the spaces across multiple farms in Nottinghamshire. I would like to turn this into a large scale commercial operation that also links community and schools in Nottinghamshire Would the grants be available to a project like this? Needs are Equipment, more storage facilities, resources for teaching programs.

Eric 22/11/2020 at 11:07 am

We have 3 acres of spare grass land running alongside a tree lined stream which we would like to turn into a wild flower meadow and another 6 acres the other side of the stream where we could do the same. Also there is a 2 acre hillside field which could benefit from tree planting. All of these projects would benefit the environment and any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.

Luke 11/11/2020 at 2:01 pm

Hi, as new regulation have set in and no longer able to gas stored potatoes, we are looking to convert it too a refrigerated system. This will keep the potatoes stored for a long period as we sell them to the community from our shop.
Regards
Luke

Rambo 21/10/2020 at 7:52 pm

Are there grants available to convert old farm buildings to holiday let’s?

Bradley 29/09/2020 at 10:12 am

STV are wanting to hear from Farmers who are diversifying their farms for a brand new Channel 5 TV series - please email farming@stv.tv for more information!

Lenny 17/09/2020 at 11:27 am

We would like to convert an old stable block into two holiday cottages the building will retain all its features is there grants available to do this we are in a rural area of Norfolk.

Hugh 14/09/2020 at 7:52 am

Hi - We are planning to renovate and use an old grain dryer shed as a repair workshop for the community. The idea is that it will accommodate a number (perhaps 4-5 repairers) and it will be a drop-off and collection point for items to be repaired. Would there be any grant support? We need to repair the roof, install electrics, insulate, clean up the space and generally make it usable.

Sarah 09/09/2020 at 5:37 pm

I would like to renovate 2 tumble down ancient pig sties/ cattle stalls into a couple of rooms for b & b. A grant for this might make it possible. Can you give me any information please.
Sarah

Jimbo 29/08/2020 at 8:42 pm

Hello, I am a new entrant in agriculture currently keep bees and graze cattle on wildflower meadows for conservation grazing but would like to grow the amount of colonies of bees I have in order to offer pollination to the wild flower meadows is there any way you could help me with any sort of funding, help or even advice? Any help on my adventure would be appreciated thanks!

Sue 19/08/2020 at 1:28 pm

Hello
We would like to use Restore unused farm buildings and yard as a storage facility, would we be Eligible for funding for a project like this.

Annie 18/08/2020 at 3:54 pm

There are two dis-used agricultural buildings, a Brew House and Cart Shed, in the grounds which I wish to re-build and restore to house and display heritage Collections to the public and Schools and restore as a Community Hall, with Shop and Cafe.on the Isle of Wight.

Are financial grants available for these buildings as they are in the curtilege of a Listed
Manor house.

If so, which Grant funders should I approach?.

Ina 13/08/2020 at 6:09 pm

Hi, we are looking to convert our barn into holiday lets.We live on a farm in South Wales and was wondering are there any grants available for this huge project.THank you

AH 31/07/2020 at 12:37 pm

I live in Cornwall and have just read that the Rural Enterprise Scheme doesnt extend to People living in Cornwall. Please can you advise and refer me to your partner organisation in Cornwall so that i may apply fpr somilar assistance. Many thanks.

Charl 16/07/2020 at 11:31 am

Hi i have a farm barn which hasn’t been used for years. I am wanting to convert it, but getting confused with all the grant information, is there a grant to convert farm buildings?
Thanks in advance

Glen 15/07/2020 at 3:52 pm

Hi, as I lost my job at the onset of the lockdown, I started up a paddock maintenance business specialising in the smaller paddocks ( up to 6 acres). I am located in the New Forest, and have found that there is a BIG call for this type of business. I use a compact 30hp tractor at present, with various implements ranging from toppers to pipe layers, box levellers etc. However, the tractor I have is quite old (its rather unreliable), and I also require more implements - is there any way I could get help to replace my tractor and get a muck spreader. We are the only company in the New Forest area that does this kind of work - the sites we work on, the bigger tractors can't or won't do the work as its not worth their while coastwise, or they can't gain access as they are too big. Some help would be so gratefully received. Many thanks

Neil 02/07/2020 at 9:43 am

Hi I am a new beekeeper on the west coast of scotland and was wondering if there are any grants that will enable me to increase the number of colonies i have and purchase new equipment such as suits and honey extraction equipment so that i can mentor other beekeepers and young people interested in the whole process

Thanks
Neil

michael 01/07/2020 at 1:25 pm

Hi there. We have an upland hill farm in south powys and are thinking about converting a barn into a holiday let but are not able to afford the cost of this project. Would we be legible for any sort of grant?

Thanks in advance

Michael

Andrii 21/06/2020 at 11:36 pm

Hi. I want to increase number of bee hives in west London and out of London areas, by finding people who want to host some hives and live next to parks or nature resort.
And then placing hives there and look after them. Is there grants to support my vision.

GDM 08/06/2020 at 10:20 pm

We are looking to convert our barn into a holiday let. Would we be eligible for a grant? Many thanks

Speedy 04/06/2020 at 5:00 pm

We are looking to purpose build a building to open a tea room & events business on our farm & wondered if there are any grants/funding available please

Speedy 04/06/2020 at 4:57 pm

We farm in the national park, are looking to build a purpose built tea room & events business & wondered if there are any grants available please

Alypally 01/06/2020 at 6:58 pm

Please could someone advise me whether there are any grants available to help me set up my Log Pod Glamping business, i have got full planning permission in place but need support to start . Thankyou

charlie 31/05/2020 at 11:39 am

We are thinking of buying some glamping pods to put on our farm in the Yorkshire dales national park, would we be eligible for this grant and how would we apply?

Lee 22/05/2020 at 12:21 pm

Hi we have just renovated and are in the process of developing two barn conversations and the annexe of our farmhouse to let as holiday accommodation and we would like to further develop our land into a glam ping site.
Would we be considered?

Scott1 16/05/2020 at 5:24 pm

Hi my grandparents own a small farm and They are semi reitired and I’m looking to take over and expand. But I need to build some new buildings some cattle sheds and some sheds for storage for hay and straw. Also looking to hopefully build and open a farm shop is this grant helpful in anyway

Thanks

Emma 16/05/2020 at 11:32 am

Hi,we are looking for help with funding to buy and do up an abandoned farm from our local council. We would like to start a farm shop and tearoom on there. Where do we start looking for help.

Katie 12/05/2020 at 3:36 pm

Hello, is this grant scheme still open and under what governing body?

Kate 08/05/2020 at 4:34 pm

We are looking at converting one of the barns into a residential property for a member of our family and long term to become a holiday let. Are there any grants available for this?

Jaz 07/04/2020 at 11:02 am

I would like to start my own equestrian centre that would double up as a wedding venue. Where do I start an could I get a grant for this? Many thanks Jasmine

Sar 05/03/2020 at 10:44 pm

I have recently set up a small business in one of our farm buildings. We have a play area and I teach phonics to small children. Is there any grants to help renovate the barn to make it more suitable for the lessons.

Sandy 04/03/2020 at 9:15 am

Hi there
I have a small holding & I have planting 240 fruit trees of several variety. I am looking to build a farm building for Apple press & cider making . Please can you help with what grants I can apply.

Thanks

Dawn 03/02/2020 at 8:42 am

We have 2 outbuildings in need of renovation which would be perfect to House a bunk barn for cyclists visiting the local forest area, together with a cafe space and holistic therapy space for yoga, treatments and meditation. It’s something we have been considering and already run a cafe and workshops from a rented location - so a move and widening of our business? Are we eligible?

Ian 02/02/2020 at 11:22 pm

I have just started a new business involving a Red Deer Farm and processing unit. Is this something that could qualify for a grant?

Ian 02/02/2020 at 11:20 pm

I have just started a new business involving a small red deer farm and processing unit. Is this something that could qualify for a grant?

Rachel Frank 01/02/2020 at 7:28 am

Hi we are looking to set up a kennels /dog cafe we have a farm that is redundant to the farm but the buildings would make a great conversion and business are grants and loans available to farming family

Nick 26/12/2019 at 2:24 pm

Hi,
I am looking into funding for my business. I have recently started up my own business, after 14 years in biomass, with my son. We are called biofire and we work with renewable energy/biomass all over the UK.

Charlie 09/12/2019 at 7:03 am

Looking for funding for a range of granite barns to convert residential. Need help with getting planning permissions..have to act now on these buildings no longer in use on farm.

Charlie 09/12/2019 at 6:59 am

Looking for funding for a range of granite barns to convert residential. Need help with planning permissions

Bruce 06/12/2019 at 9:07 am

I have just built a Shepherds Hut to let as part of our smallholding business. The letting agents are encouraging me to add a wood fired hot tub to improve the number of bookings. Is there a grant available for this? I have invested £25k already. Many thanks

Alison 29/09/2019 at 2:42 pm

I am just about to purchase a property with an acre garden and I would like to build 2 solar powered timber framed holiday lets. I understand that projects that bring tourists to the Dover area are encouraged. Would I be eligible for any government grants?

gilly 29/09/2019 at 2:16 pm

we are looking to replace the roof on our old stone shippon to start rearing new calfs . the building hasnt been used since we stopped milking many years ago . are there any 100% grants available to get me started please

Nat 03/09/2019 at 12:16 pm

Hi, my parents have a farm which used to be a dairy farm but they no longer farm dairy. I was hoping to convert the old milking parlour into a rentable workshop space and event /shop/cafe. Would this qualify for a grant?

Db 20/08/2019 at 11:23 am

Hi, we are thinking of converting our stone barn on are small farm to holiday let’s , we are in Crickhowell Powys , South Wales , can we get funding, thanks david

Craig 16/08/2019 at 12:30 am

Hi , I have started a small Apairy in a meadow in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, I'm trying to boost the bee population. As well as trying to get the members of the public interested by funding a hive. I would like to expand the Apairy. Would this be something that could be funded. Many thanks

Craig

Lou 07/08/2019 at 2:13 pm

Hi there, we live in a very rural area on a small holding previously used as a milking Parlour. We live on site. I currently run a dog grooming business from one of the large barns. My husband and I are looking to open boarding kennels too as there is only one small boarding business in the area. We require extra funding for redevelopment to make the whole barn soundproof.
We are looking to create two new jobs in our local area if we receive funding to assist with the costs.
Look forward to hearing from you
Kind regards
Louisa Dean

Sarah 20/07/2019 at 9:51 am

We would like to renovate part of a barn to make a learning area and toilets for our school visits to the farm. Are there any grants or help to do this please?

milkmaid 10/07/2019 at 8:39 pm

Hi, we need to build a new cattle shed so we can take animals through to finishing. Any grants available ?

Chipie 11/06/2019 at 9:16 pm

Looking at converting unused building on family farm to set up a small rare breeds Centre with coffee shop, what grants etc are available and who is the best people to help

ARK 27/05/2019 at 5:04 pm

Hi, struggling to find any links to the Rural Enterprise Scheme. Is it also called the Rural Development Fund ? Thank you.

Spike 08/05/2019 at 8:56 am

Hi looking at holiday let’s for our ex small dairy farm , I have looked online for grants but it’s is slightly daunting, can you please help . Regards Spike

andy 29/04/2019 at 3:02 pm

we are a small renewable energy company supplying solar pv,heat pump and recently vertical axis wind turbines.we have sourced and fitted the turbines with surprising results.our aim is to expand this field as it is brand new to the uk.we fit to private dwellings including commercial applications.this is a clean green alternative to current supplies of energy.

Jojo 19/04/2019 at 7:12 pm

Hello
We have a small stone barn on our farm that is no longer in use. I would like to convert this into a workshop to run a floristy business from. There is no florist in our local town and I feel that there is a gap in the market. Are there any grants available to help convert the barn?

Wardy 28/03/2019 at 1:48 pm

Just got planning permission for a 60ftx25ft barn in droitwich Worcestershire.we plan to breed rate breeds of animals and rescue animals.can I get funding??

G 27/03/2019 at 11:58 am

I have an established Arabian stud farm & specialise in conserving rare bloodlines. I have also rescued many Arab horses & would now like to help people who suffer with PTSD by using the rescued horses as horse therapy has been proven to be very helpful. I am based in Devon but have found a more suitable premises in Somerset.

G 27/03/2019 at 11:54 am

Hello
I have an established Arabian stud farm where I specialise in conserving old bloodlines. I have also rescued many Arabs in the past but would like to branch out into the community by using these rescued Arab horses to help people with PTSD. I have found a suitable premises but would like to help towards the costs of setting it up.
I look forward to hearing from you
Gina

Lisa 04/01/2019 at 11:38 am

Hello we are looking to set up some glamping pods and a tree house in leicestershire on our farm as the farming alone doesnt cover costs. Ive look online and a lot of the grants online are out of date or like LAG closed to applications. We need to try find a grant to help but im at a loss. Thanks

Sandy 17/11/2018 at 6:53 pm

I would like funding for a toilet facility at a rural hair salon for Metfield, Ip200lb. I have been open two years and the customers keep mentioning how this would of benefit to them. Especially the elderly and kids.
I have on numerous occasions asked my landlords, who tell me it's being considered. I knew when I took the premises it was a downfall. So how would fare trying for a grant

Sp 10/10/2018 at 9:39 am

I would like to start up as a Harness and Collar Maker (for horses etc.)
I am fully qualified but require additional funding to continue. This is a dying craft which I am passionate about. Any assistance would be gratefully received. The area is Cambridgeshire, UK.

Will 20/09/2018 at 3:58 pm

I am 19 years old and I have just inherited our family farm I would love to start commercial bee keeping I am passionate about the environment and wildlife. The farm is a wildlife haven with large hedge rows and ponds with abundance of wildlife. And I'm very interested in diversifying the farm into a wildlife vistors center in the future. Would like to know if any grants are available for my projects.

Tom 17/08/2018 at 1:09 am

I am exploring purchasing the local shop which hasn’t traded for 2 years due to poor management. Would your scheme help to fund the purchase of the premise and revamp? The main aim is to generate emplyment to adults in the village as well as a safe place for the elderly to go and get local produce. Any guidance would be appreciated.

Many Thanks
Tom

GrantsExpert Editor 13/08/2018 at 11:36 am

Try the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) Growth Programme or Leader Scheme.

Bob Taylor 11/08/2018 at 6:22 pm

We have planted an apple pear and plum orchard as well as other soft fruits which are now producing significant amounts of fruit and would to start producing cold pressed and pastuerised juices and cordials to sell locally.Is there a grant available to assist us with the start up.we are in rural Shropshire.

GrantsExpert Editor 01/08/2018 at 3:07 pm

Try the above suggestions and also business start up grants. Your local council will be able to refer you to locally organisations that can help.

Ali 31/07/2018 at 1:09 pm

I want to convert a building or buy a portakabin which is eco friendly and to be used for cheese production. Where would I begin looking for a grant?
Thanks

GrantsExpert Editor 30/07/2018 at 11:59 am

There may be some farm diversification grants available in your area - start with the government advice for more details.

Jen 29/07/2018 at 7:41 am

Good morning,
Please could you signpost me in the direction of South yorkshire’s equivalent grant? We have planning permission to convert a barn and are hoping to offer it as a holiday let for horse riding holidays and general travel.
Thank you

Mark Lindsell 27/07/2018 at 7:41 am

Hi
I have a working farm - now mainly arable and have a few old buildings that were originally used for pigs but have been redundant for decades - am thinking of converting them to office/studio space's are there grants available for such projects.
Thanks
Mark

Rosie 20/07/2018 at 5:52 pm

Hi.... I have a very old grade two stone barn on the farm. I would very much like to convert it into a holiday let but currently only have £25,000 to contribute to the project, could I get any grants to assist with this. Thanks

MrsBirdie 17/07/2018 at 5:45 pm

There is an old abandoned shop in my village that is due to go on the market. I would like to turn it into a cafe for the community. Although it’s not listed it’s located next to listed buildings and in an area that is protected and deemed to be of historical interest. What grants would I best to look at?

Tony 24/06/2018 at 1:27 pm

I am looking to set up as a commercial bee keeper. Trying to find out what Grant are available. I have 80 hives up and running at the moment and would like to increase to 250. I live in South Wales UK.

Alfi 23/03/2018 at 8:43 pm

Would there be a possibility of a rural enterprise grant for a Track Livery business for horses? I have had a great number of inquiries recently and I have the land and the knowledge but not the infrastructure. I have a 5 acre smallholding but would need an agricultural building for hay and tractor, trailer, storage, some hard standing and hardcore tracks and one or two more moveable shelters. My daughters pony and a few liveries are already kept like this- on tracks with little or no access to grass but outside and moving all year round to find hay containers around the track. Many horse owners do not want their horses in stables when the ground is wet but livery owners are reluctant for their fields to be trashed. Thank you for any information

GrantsExpert Editor 12/03/2018 at 12:17 pm

DEFRA is the best place to start looking for information. Here are two resources to try: Stewardship grants for orchards RDPE Growth Programme Food Processors

Crockpot 09/03/2018 at 10:23 am

I have recently bought a three acre field and planted an orchard. I would like to establish a workshop on the field to process the apples into juice and cider, and also space to store the machinery necessary to maintain the orchard and field. I already take apples from friends orchards and process these at home. Are there any grants that would help me establish the workshop/store?

GrantsExpert Editor 05/02/2018 at 2:41 pm

There are still some grants available for farming/countryside stewardship/diversification etc but we can't say whether any are applicable to your situation as we don't know enough about it. Try: The goverment rural grants page or

Deere 02/02/2018 at 11:41 pm

I run a small 35 acre farm in the far south west, of cornwall. I have sheep and calfs. Our income is very low.
We do, grow our own haylage, hay etc.

We do claim the single farm payment, but we could do with much more.
So we can invest and make a full time paid job, and my farm will be more productive.
I do not believe my business farm account, bank manager would help, only laugh.

Joe 24/01/2018 at 11:23 pm

We own an old village pub near Alford in Linconshire which had been closed for over a year when we bought it several years ago and we have spent the last few years carrying out substantial renovations in order to reopen it as a tea room/B&B which we were able to do under permitted development. As we are now over 75% through the project are there any retrospective grants we could claim? The oldest part of the property is early 19th century but it is not listed though we are in an AONB on the edgel of the Lincolnshire Wolds.
Regards Joe

Capricorn jjd 17/01/2018 at 6:07 pm

We are about to start conversion of 3 barns - which fall within a listed building curtilage. Planning permission was granted on the basis that as part of the conversion we must make 2 of the 3 barns holiday lets. Are there any grants available for this?

Jonesy 01/11/2017 at 10:19 pm

I am starting my own rural craft business teaching people the taditional craft of weaving. Students will range from private individuals to vulnerable children who have been excluded from school, teaching them new skills that they can use for leisure or as occupational therapy. This workshop will also support students from a local rural enterprise centre. The set up costs are not immense but this will now become my only income source. I would be very grateful of any information or advice regarding financial support / grants. My intention is to employ 1-2 people within the next 12 months giving students an opportunity to work / set up their own business.

Ashy 28/04/2017 at 1:08 pm

We are looking to set up a farm shopping Somerset would this grant or similar be available to start this business start up?

Tom 22/04/2017 at 12:06 pm

I'm wanting to sethe up a bee farm in rural Northumberland, it would also be educational accessable to locals and schools. I was wondering if you know of any grants avaliable? Thanks Tom

Saw 01/04/2017 at 11:06 am

We are looking to renovate an old barn on our farm in Cumbria into a holiday let. Then possibly build a swimming pool which would also be available to the locals. Are there any grants available in this areas pls?

GrantsExpert Editor 31/03/2017 at 2:04 pm

You could try the rurual enterprise scheme. If you were to involve the local community and will be using an existing social club - here are some ideas to look at: Rural Warwickshire (funding advice) Warwickshire district grants scheme Trusthouse charitable foundatyion

Jo 30/03/2017 at 8:33 pm

We live in a village just outside Stratford Upon Avon and are looking to set up a cafe and little village shop as there is currently nothing in our village for local residents. We have a number of new parents and older residents who would really benefit from this. Would we qualify to apply for this? There is already a social club where we would like to run this from so we would be taking that over and making it more accessible to everyone, and incorporating food sales and the sale of local produce.
Thanks

GrantsExpert Editor 21/03/2017 at 2:27 pm

You should check your local council to see if there are any start up grants in your area...it's more likely that you might be offered a low cost loan etc.

Sophie 18/03/2017 at 9:56 pm

I want to start a dog grooming salon in or around Yeleverton Devon. There's a cry for the service. Would I qualify for a grant? Thank you

GrantsExpert Editor 09/02/2017 at 12:27 pm

You can try...we have no idea whether this would be considered under the farm diversity funding schemes. here are the details.

Rob 07/02/2017 at 9:00 pm

I want to inquire about the potential to get a grant to part fund a farm diversification project in a farm food takeaway business - initially pizzas. It would be based in an orchard close to the centre of the village and provide part time employment to local people. It would also act as a great social place for the community in the summer months. Thanks. Rob

moo 18/01/2017 at 7:10 pm

we are a dairy farm in the Peak district, a very touristy area and are keen to tackle the 'glamping' market. Are there any appropriate grants available?

GrantsExpert Editor 11/01/2017 at 11:46 am

Try the Rural devekopment programme for England

solo 10/01/2017 at 1:54 pm

I have planning permission to renovate a derelict stores /garage at the rear of my high street business into a holiday let we are in a rural village in a conservation area with lots of local interests but no such amenities I am going to find this project a difficult one to fund personally and wondered as there is a lot of expensive procedures involved initially because of the location etc whether a grant would be available for a project like this it will certainly enhance the look of the village high street which is in need at present also bringing tourists into the village will help the local business s

Toy Song TV 02/01/2017 at 9:28 pm

I have started a you tube channel Toy Song TV , making songs for children mostly about tractors with animations. I intend to employ an assistant as filming alone is difficult. I have achieved some success but to reach a worldwide audience I need to invest money in advertising, an assistant and improved equipment.

PBW 30/08/2016 at 12:16 pm

Hi,
I'm starting a commercial bee farming operation and am making to jump from being a hobbyist to becoming a full time bee farmer. This involves significant outlay in buying equipment. Would I be able to apply for a grant to help with the purchase or hives and equipment? Where should I start in applying for a grant?
Thanks

Oh Dear Editor 10/08/2016 at 11:25 am

@Paul. It would be better to contact DEFRA directly and ask about grants available.

Paul 08/08/2016 at 8:41 pm

I started a small red deer farming enterprise just over a year ago on the Dorset/Wiltshire border. It operates on 15 acres of a rented farm, which extends to approx. 70 acres, within which I hope to expand.
Would the business qualify for funding aid for further deer fencing and for the installation of a deer handling facility?
Thank you

GrantsExpert Editor 06/10/2015 at 11:32 am

Here are few options that you could try: Business Development Grants programme Grants for micro & small businesses in a rural area and farmers wanting to diversify into non-agricultural activities The Countryside Productivity Scheme The Energy Saving Trust

Jfe 05/10/2015 at 12:35 pm

We are farmers in North Devon and in the early stages of setting up a renewable energy consultancy business from our farm in Burrington. We were wondering if there are any grants available for marketing / corporate identity creation or / and for research & business development.

jenny 01/05/2015 at 5:04 pm

I work part time for a small timber frame building company that would like to move to slightly larger premises at Sheffield Park, East Sussex. Would there be any grants available to help us with moving costs and or set up costs.
Thank you

MW 31/03/2015 at 9:14 pm

My family inherited some agricultural land in 2004 and since then it has laid fallow. We have recently decided to plant a vineyard to sell the grapes as a crop. As we have deer locally we need to install deer fencing, do you know if there is any funding available to assist with the project as a whole or even just the deer fencing? The property is approximately 9 acres (3.6 hectares). Thanks.

manmountain 29/03/2015 at 11:51 am

I am looking to expand our woodland management and establishment and fencing company into mobile sawmilling as I can see an opportunity to add value to locally produced timber and also to make a part time member of staff full time and possibly take on someone else. We are based in Norfolk, is there help available with this sort of proposal, particularly with the capital expense?

GrantsExpert Editor 18/03/2015 at 12:14 pm

@judy. Your water company will replace the pipes that they own free of charge. Unfortunately grants for replacing those in your home are generally no longer available. If you're in Scotland, you may have more luck.

Judy 16/03/2015 at 10:46 am

I have an old Victorian guest house in Whitby which we are wanting to change from old lead piping to current day pipework. Do you know if there is any funding available or where I might go to find this out?
Judy

James 26/02/2015 at 4:04 pm

I wish to cultivate some Barron council wasteland for my own purpose and the local schools in the area. Any info will help.

GrantsExpert Editor 02/12/2014 at 10:09 am

@M. Startup grants are given for a wide range of ventures, so there is no reason why you not should get some funding towards this. We don't know where you're located so can't give you any specific details of organisations in your area, but try your local council to start.

M 01/12/2014 at 10:08 am

I'm looking at starting a mineral botteling plant and looking for start up funding would this project fall to this catorgory

leon 19/11/2014 at 8:14 pm

We have gained planning permission for a caravan and camping site extremely close to Rutland Water. It is currently an open field and we need to add a toilet and shower block along with all the necessary infrastructure. We intend to have high green credentials with an emphasis on re-cycling, low car use and to allow groups like schools and scouts to visit at little or no cost. We also plan opening an on site shop for customers and the village to use as there is none locally.
Would you, or do you know of any groups who offer grants,funding or support for such a venture.
Thankyou

pixie 21/02/2014 at 11:34 pm

Recently purchased a very run down farm in 40 acres ,interested in running a bring your horse on holiday business along with small farm cafe ,jyst wondering if any grants would be available.land and buildings in run down condition at present. Many thanks

CHEMA 11/01/2014 at 7:01 pm

We are the church organization helping the rural, rural poor community to raise they income through keeping bees, we are in need of just a shake hands for getting tools and equipment for supporting the target groups(beginners) to safely and productively keep the honey bees. Could you please support us to a tune of just Us $ 10,000.00 and we will do wonders with our beekeepers.

Thanks.
A Mmore formalized information on reply.

Kileo.

Bee preservation 14/11/2013 at 10:16 pm

Hi I am looking for help toward purchasing a small 0.2acre plot of land for use as an Apiary and conservation centre in a rural area

jonno 12/06/2013 at 1:08 pm

Hi,
I have a 30 acre coastal site which does not farm anymore, but I stll reside in the farmhouse, for the last few years I have been using the land for campers to stay between may - september, The WC and Washing/Showering facilities on offer leave a lot to be desired, I would like to build a fit for purpose Block comprising of WC's, Washing and Showering units. Would I be eligble for a part grant to assist with the project.

Thanks
Jonno

jayo 10/04/2013 at 3:20 pm

Hi, I'm looking to convert a farm building on our now farm (its only grass let not farmed anymore) for a holiday let would I be able to apply for a grant through the res?

Jonny 12/03/2013 at 11:39 am

Hi my parents own a farm in Lancashire. They currently run a livery business which only brings in a small revenue if any. I'm thinking of diversifying into glamping? Any grant would be useful to implement the idea. I.e create shower block or accomodation. The farm will be sold if there is no way to save it, can you help? Thanks

greenman 02/11/2012 at 10:35 pm

I AM IN NEED OF FUNDING, AS I AM A WILDLIFE REHABILITATOR, I LOOK AFTER SICK, INJURED ORPHANED BRITISH WILDLIFE .

CAN YOU HELP?

YOURS rita

SEP 29/08/2012 at 11:43 am

I am interested in applying for a grant to assist a horticultural enterprise with (hopefully) high returns and expansion.

JAYU 28/08/2012 at 2:28 pm

I WANT FUNDING FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENTPROJECT

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