Minister Muir launches New Farming for Sustainability - Innovation Scheme
Date published:
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has announced the launch of the Farming for Sustainability - Innovation Scheme.
The scheme, which is part of the Sustainable Agriculture Programme, is designed to support farmers in identifying and implementing innovative solutions that enhance environmental performance, boost productivity and help to future-proof the agriculture industry against emerging challenges.
It aims to expand access to innovation support, through three elements - Innovation Visits, Innovation Farms and Innovation Partnerships providing an important support mechanism to address barriers to the implementation of new innovations.
Minister Muir said: "The Farming for Sustainability - Innovation Scheme is about equipping and supporting farmers to explore new ideas and innovations that will help them to address the challenges that they face within their businesses. Innovation is essential if we are to build a thriving, resilient and environmentally sustainable agriculture sector."
The first Innovation Visit will be to Harper Adams University in Shropshire and Grosvenor Farms in Cheshire, and will take place on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5March 2026.
Minister Muir said: "I would encourage farmers to apply for this Innovation Visit as it is a unique opportunity to learn about forward thinking research on nutrient management solutions for high output dairy systems and the adoption of these innovations on farm."
To make an application visit the CAFRE website: Innovation Visits - CAFRE
The call for applications for the first Innovation Visit will close on Tuesday 6 January 2026 at 4:00pm.
