The 2026 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector has opened..
The Scheme is intended to assist in the development of the Irish horticulture sector, including beekeeping, by grant aiding capital investments in specialised plant and equipment.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon TD said:
“An increased budget of €8.8 million has been secured for horticulture in 2026 which recognises my Department’s commitment to this important sector. The sector continues to grow with a farm gate value of €639 million in 2024, demonstrating progress towards meeting the target set out in the National Strategy for Horticulture 2023 – 2027. The mid-term review of the National Strategy for Horticulture will be published later this year and will outline the progress made in the implementation of the Strategy’s eight Key Strategic Actions (KSA). My Department is strongly committed to the vision set out in the Strategy for a more profitable, value-added sector driven by sustainability and innovation and the opening of the 2026 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector is a testament to that.”
The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector covers all horticultural areas including field vegetables (including seed potatoes), mushrooms, protected food crops, amenity crops, soft fruit, apples, and beekeeping.
Minister of State with responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae TD added:
“I am delighted to be able to announce the opening of the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector with an increased budget in 2026. Throughout the year I have taken the opportunity to visit several horticultural growers and have received positive feedback on the important role this scheme plays in developing and growing this important and resilient sector. It enables growers to invest in capital investments that make a real difference to their business. I would also like to invite horticulture growers to the upcoming Horticulture Industry Forum (HIF) grower meeting, which I will co-chair on Wednesday, 12 November at the Department’s Backweston Campus in Celbridge. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with their HIF sector representatives and receive updates from my Department, Bord Bia and the Irish Farmers Association (IFA). I encourage growers to attend this special event as it will provide an excellent opportunity for discussion and engagement.”
The closing date for receipt of applications under the 2025 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector is Friday, 12 December 2025.
Application forms and the Scheme Terms and Conditions are available online
Applications can also be requested via email to: horticulturegrants@agriculture.gov.ie
This scheme aids existing producers and new entrants to horticulture at a rate of up to 40% on all approved investments, with qualifying young farmers and licensed organic growers receiving up to 50% grant aid.
Link to the National Strategy for Horticulture 2023-2027
The Scheme objectives include facilitating the adoption of innovative technologies, facilitating the horticulture sector to develop a targeted and precise approach focusing on environmental dividends, efficiency and growth and facilitating investment in climate change mitigation. The Scheme also aims to improve growers’ competitiveness and contribute to the improvement of agricultural incomes and thereby the long-term viability of horticultural enterprises.
The Horticulture Industry Forum grower meeting takes place on Wednesday, 12 November 2025 from 09:30 - 14:30 at the Shared Services Building, Backweston Laboratory Campus, Celbridge, W23 X3PH.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite and must be booked in advance to ensure access to the campus: Horticulture Industry Forum grower meeting Tickets, Wed 12 Nov 2025 at 09:30 | Eventbrite
Interested in plants, growing food, gardening? Visit Nightcourses.com and find courses that teach Horticulture. The science of garden and landscape can teach you the theory, practical skills and technology to develop your horticulture career. Grow beautiful flowers, plant your own organic food where you can eat non-processed products and improve your quality of life. Or simply escape from your busy life and grasp some peace of mind.
