Baza danych projektów PROW
Hälje Farm - Diversification in Action
Summary
A farm was transformed into a diversified rural business (including restaurant, shop and conference facilities) by new owners who were not traditionally farmers but who did demonstrate entrepreneurial and creative spirit.
Background
Purchase of an 'old' farm by new owners who were not traditionally farmers - but who did have a rural business concept.
Objective
To apply a rural business concept that combines traditional farming activity with commercial activities such as sales of products directly at the farm gate and the provision of services such as restaurant, events organised at the farm and tours for visitors. To offer a unique experience and a unique cuisine in a beautiful environment.
Main activities
The main activities of the project were: i) Investments related to the new business venture. Specifically a new restaurant, shop and conference facilities. ii) Restructuring of the agricultural activities of the farm, to rationalise the farming enterprises and create synergies with the new rural business concept. Specifically renting out exess grazing animals which the farm land cannot support to other landowners and the Umeå municipality (who hire sheep).
Results & Benefits
Agricultural production now represents approximately 50% of the business turnover. New diversified activities (including sales of products, events, and farm tours) now represent approximately 25% of turnover (and this is expected to double within - say - five years). Local biodiversity is maintained through the renting out of grazing animals and rural tourism supported through the local municipality's use of the farm's sheep.
Lessons learnt
An 'on farm' rural business concept can be successfully realised by people who do not have previous experience in farming. For this project, the key success factor was the creativity to develop a new concept and turn it into practice.
Project location and other information
Umeå, Västerbotten
Region
Västerbottens län
RDP Territory
Sweden
Total project cost (€)
150 000
EAFRD contribution (€)
45 000
Private contribution (€)
105 000
Project website
Contact name
Erik and Kristina Johansson
Telephone
+ 46 70-514 75 24
Languages for contact
Swedish
At a glance
Country
Sweden
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers, Public/local authorities, Other
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
01/06/2007
End Date:
31/12/2009
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
121. Modernisation of agricultural holdings
Keywords:
Food quality , Biodiversity, Diversity, Modernisation, Farm shop
Last update
22/02/2012