Expressions of interest for two schemes under the overarching Horticulture Pilot Scheme in Northern Ireland have opened.

The scheme aims to foster innovation, support sustainable practices and promote growth within the horticulture industry.

It aims to develop cooperation among growers, provide capital funding for the adoption of innovative crops, technologies and systems and support the development of new growers.

Minister for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Andrew Muir, has said that horticulture is "vital to Northern Ireland's agri-food sector".

Minister Muir said: “Not only does horticulture provide essential food but it improves environmental wellbeing and creates vital economic opportunities for our agri-food sector in Northern Ireland.

“I am delighted to launch the opening of the expression of interest stage for two schemes under the Horticulture Pilot Scheme.

"Whilst significant progress has been made, I also recognise that there is still much work to be done to ensure the sustainability and success of horticulture.”

Minister Muir added that he understands the "challenges that horticulturists face, from regulatory requirements to market pressures".

"The Horticulture Pilot Scheme is designed to address some of these concerns by providing support, resources and opportunities for innovation," he said.

"I would encourage all eligible growers and horticulture businesses to consider registering to the scheme.”

The Horticulture Pilot Scheme is made up of three individual schemes as follows:

Pilot scheme one: Sustainable Sector Growth Groups that aim to assist in the development of commercial horticulture production by providing specialist agronomy, financial, and supply chain advice whilst facilitating greater collaboration amongst group participants;
Pilot scheme two: Innovation Driver and Support Scheme will offer horticulture growers/businesses financial assistance to invest in crops, technologies, and systems which are new to Northern Ireland;
Pilot scheme three: Growers’ Training and Support Pilot Scheme aims to provide opportunities for continuous professional development within the horticulture industry through the provision of training and specialist support.

Expressions of interest for pilot schemes one and three are open from today, Tuesday, July 8, and can be submitted up to 5:00p.m on September 30, 2025.

In conjunction with the launch, Minister Muir also visited Roy and Alex Lyttle on their family farm to witness a new innovative product ‘Lyttle Leaves’, which they are producing on the shores of Strangford Lough.

This visit also served as a platform to discuss the latest advancements in horticulture and to address the sector’s ongoing concerns.

Minister Muir added: “Roy and Alex have been at the forefront of horticultural innovation and their latest product exemplifies their commitment to progress and sustainability.

"This visit was an opportunity to engage with farm representatives, listen to their insights and understand the challenges they face in the current agricultural landscape.”