Introduction
General
This brochure explains the purpose of the Agricultural Processing and Marketing Grant Scheme. It provides applicants with guidance on the terms of the scheme to enable them to prepare an application and explains the selection procedures. This grant scheme is competitive and not all eligible applications will receive assistance. It should be noted that these notes are for guidance only and do not represent a statement of the law.
You are strongly advised to read these notes and the application form carefully before taking any further action. If you are unsure of any point, or require further details, please contact the person named at 'How to Apply'.
Careful reading now can save time and effort which would otherwise be wasted preparing an application for a project ineligible for assistance.
Legislation
Processing and Marketing Grants are made under the terms of Articles 25-28 of Council Regulation ( EC) 1257/1999 1, which provides for support towards capital investments which improve the conditions under which agricultural produce is processed and marketed, Council Regulation ( EC) 1260/1999 2, which lays down general provisions on the Structural Funds, and Council Regulation ( EC) 1685/2000 3 laying down detailed rules for the implementation of Council Regulation ( EC) 1260/1999 as regards eligibility of expenditure of operations co-financed by the Structural Funds.
Grant Rates, Project Cost
The maximum amount of public assistance for Processing and Marketing is 40% of the total eligible costs (50% in the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Plan Area). The level of grant will be based on need and it is unlikely that the maximum level will be awarded to all projects. There is no minimum or maximum project cost. Funds are, however, limited and you should discuss the application with the contact given at 'How to Apply'.