2026 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector

The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector is intended to assist in the development of the horticulture sector, including beekeeping, by grant aiding capital investments in specialised plant and equipment including renewable energy, as well as technology adoption specific to commercial horticulture production.

The Scheme is open to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) active in the primary horticulture production sector (including beekeeping). Please see User guide to the SME Definition for further information on the qualifying criteria that determines whether a company is an SME or not.

This Scheme is targeted at those in the commercial horticulture section including beekeepers.

Applications should be made on an official Application Form and submitted with the required documentation.

The deadline for receipt of completed applications is 5pm on Friday 12th December 2025.

Aid will be payable at the maximum rate of 40% (at a maximum rate of 50% in the case of young farmers meeting the eligibility criteria and licensed organic growers) on the accepted net cost of investments approved and completed to the satisfaction of the Department. The minimum investment which will be considered for grant aid is €7,500 excluding VAT except in the case of beekeeping where a minimum investment of €2,000 excluding VAT applies.

For the 2026 Scheme a sperate application form for those applying for beekeeping investments items only has been introduced. Please use the Application Form below if you are applying for beekeeping investment items only.