Province supports farmers with knowledge exchange for sustainable agriculture and horticulture

Province Limburg is making over half a million euros available for knowledge exchange with groups of Limburg farmers. This amount will help farmers gain and share knowledge about sustainable agricultural techniques, among other things, through demonstrations, possibly supplemented with workshops and/or training. With this, the provincial government wants to take further steps towards a future-proof agriculture and horticulture in Limburg.

Sharing knowledge is important for strong agriculture and a good income for the farmer. Big changes often start at home, at the kitchen table or on the farm. Before a farmer decides, many conversations are held with advisors, neighbors or banks, for example. This involves questions such as, "Is this innovation feasible?" and "How quickly will the investment pay for itself?" With the right knowledge, farmers can make informed choices.

More durable and smarter

Jasper Kuntzelaers, Limburg's agriculture deputy: "This scheme is an investment in the future of Limburg agriculture. By working together and sharing knowledge, farmers can work more sustainably and smarter. This is good for farmers, nature, biodiversity and the people of Limburg. We want our agriculture to be ready for the future while ensuring a healthy living environment for everyone."

Sharing knowledge between farmers, education, researchers and suppliers is very important. Farmers like to learn from other farmers: what you see, you believe. This grant focuses mainly on demonstration activities. This allows farmers to see what opportunities exist for sustainable change. Collaborations of at least one farmer and one knowledge institution can apply for this grant from October 21, 2024 to January 6, 2025. The grant is 80% of costs and can range from €50,000 to a maximum of €100,000 per project and the maximum duration is two years. This offers farmers the chance to take big steps toward future-proof operations with relatively little of their own funds.

Information and conditions

This scheme falls under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the National Strategic Plan (NSP). An independent advisory committee evaluates applications based on effectiveness, feasibility and efficiency. The projects that best align with provincial policy and the goals of the scheme, such as promoting a sustainable earnings model for agriculture, stand the best chance of receiving a grant. More information and conditions for applying for grants can be found at www.limburg.nl.

Kuntzelaers added: "Limburg farmers face big challenges, but we believe that by working together and sharing the right knowledge, we can find solutions that are not only good for agriculture, but also for the health of our soil, air and water. This decision contributes to a stronger agricultural sector and a healthier future for all Limburg residents."