AZORES | Applications open for investment support for modernisation of farms and forest plantation

The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food recalled today that applications are now open for the “Agroacrescenta” programme – Support Scheme for Investment in the Modernisation of Farms and Forest Plantations. It aims to “step up the modernisation of farms and forest plantation, improving overall performance, sustainability, competitiveness and working conditions.”

According to António Ventura, this support scheme, published through Ordinance no. 3/2024 of January 10, 2024, “covers all agri-production areas and partially contributes to addressing the labour shortage in the agricultural and forestry sector.” Applications are eligible for support if the proposed investment is up to a maximum of 10,000 Euros and is equal to or less than 50% of the gross income of the farms or forest plantations.

“The ‘Agroacrescenta’ programme also contributes to innovation and the green transition, whilst providing an opportunity to replace equipment on farms and forest plantations to ensure greater operational efficiency,” he added.

Eligible expenditure includes the purchase of machinery and equipment deemed necessary to carry out agricultural or forestry activities; the acquisition, development or use of software; low-voltage power lines, from the public network to the farm’s switchboard; water mains, from the water main to the shut-off valve at the entrance to the farm, as well as personal protective equipment for the application of plant protection products and use in beekeeping.

This support is granted in the form of a non-refundable subsidy corresponding to 50% of the amount of the investment considered eligible. The support is increased by 5 percentage points in the case of investments made by young farmers and productions bearing the following certifications: “Animal Welfare – WellFair,” “GLOBALG.A.P.,” Organic Production Mode (MPB), Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). The same applies to wine producers whose wines have been certified with a Designation of Origin (DO) and Geographical Indication (GI) in the year before submitting the support application.

According to António Ventura, the reference table annexed to the ordinance contains the maximum eligible amounts for a wide range of equipment; however, it can be updated “whenever necessary.”

Regarding the support for the acquisition of machinery or equipment not included in the table, the government official noted that “it can also be supported if the applicant submits three budgets, following the same rules as the ordinance in force.”

The Support Scheme for Investment in the Modernisation of Farms and Forest Plantations- “Agroacrescenta” planned for 2024 was drawn up by the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food in conjunction with the Azores Agricultural Federation. The latter “has been crucial in the construction of public policies for agriculture, presenting initiatives and demands from and for all islands,” said the Regional Secretary.

GRA/RÁDIOILHÉU