DAERA minister launches £4m fund for rural businesses
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has announced a new £4 million Rural Business Development Grant Scheme (RBDGS) will open for applications next Monday, June 29.
Eligible rural businesses can apply for capital assistance of 50%, up to the value of £7,500, for the purchase of capital equipment which will support sustainability, competitiveness, innovation, service expansion, and entry into new markets.
The scheme is funded under DAERA’s Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework and will deliver capital grants to support rural micro-businesses across Northern Ireland.
Launching the scheme, Minister Muir said: “The scheme demonstrates my department’s commitment to supporting strong, sustainable and diverse rural communities, while also helping rural micro-businesses to invest in their future.
“Rural businesses make an important contribution to local economies and communities. This funding will support the growth of eligible businesses and improve their sustainability credentials.
"I would encourage all eligible rural micro-businesses to contact their local council for details of the scheme and support to make an application.”
The scheme will close for applications at 12:00 noon on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
The scheme will be delivered by local councils on behalf of DAERA.
Those who wish to apply for the funding can gather further information including registration requirements from local council.
In 2025/2026, DAERA invested £5.45 million through the Rural Business Development Grant Scheme to 1,225 businesses.
Eligible rural businesses in the Belfast City Council area may also apply to the scheme.
These applications will be administered by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council.
