A network that helps improve sustainability through farmer-led innovation. ‘Field labs’ and research grants provide farmers with skills, support and scientific backing to find solutions to the challenges which farmers face.
Projects & Practice
Scotland’s RDP has adopted simplified administration systems that include a ‘two-tier’ application process for RDP grants. This was introduced to provide proportionate ‘fast-track’ procedures for projects requiring smaller amounts of RDP funding.

The GrowBiz approach to enterprise support is based on building long-term relationships with businesses and encouraging them to connect, collaborate, share and network with other enterprises in their local community and further afield.

Turning an abandoned park area and its gardens into a community hub to create opportunities for social interaction, training and employment.

Setting up a niche business start-up as a canine therapy centre.

Support from the rural development programme for England enabled an entrepreneur to upgrade his ales brewing business.

EAFRD funding helped expand and develop a social enterprise in rural Scotland. A new training centre is built, a visitor centre expanded and more jobs for adults with special needs created.

Agritourism Monitor Farms are rural businesses opened up to wider community groups, other rural businesses and related professionals for site tours, working groups and open discussions.

A business network used LEADER funding to provide an alternative source of business support to rural communities through local people with relevant knowledge and contacts.