Farron calls on farmers to benefit from £60 million fund

Following the Government's announcement this week of a new £60million Rural Economy Grant scheme to support rural business, Cumbrian MP, Tim Farron has called on farmers and rural entrepreneurs across the county to apply for funding to support their businesses.

Applications for the Rural Economy Grant scheme opened on Wednesday and will run until the end of April. Farmers and other rural entrepreneurs will be able to apply for grants of up to £1million to enable them to take life-changing opportunities to grow their businesses through the Rural Economy Grant scheme, increasing both their competitiveness and profits.

Successful applicants will receive up to 40% of the cost of projects in the five business areas of farm competiveness, agri-food, tourism, forestry, and micro enterprise support.

Commenting Tim said: "For far too long Governments have overlooked the potential for economic development in the countryside, which is why I'm delighted that this Government is finally taking notice and providing the funding so that people in rural areas are able to boost their businesses and contribute to rebuilding the rural and national economy.

"I'm calling on farmers across Cumbria to make the most of this opportunity and apply for funding which could help to build on animal health and welfare as well as improve soil nutrients and water management. This scheme could also enable rural and farming businesses to take up new opportunities in the growing tourism industry in Cumbria."