DEFRA funding advice to Norfolk Farmers

Farmers and landowners will have the opportunity to find out how to apply for Defra funding at a special business clinic in Norwich on 23 September. There will be further clinics on 21October, 18 November and 16 December.

The clinics are being held at Defra's Norwich office, 122a Thorpe Road, and will provide one-to-one advice for anyone wishing to make an application for funding under Defra's project based schemes. These

include:

* Processing and Marketing Grant - improving agricultural processing and marketing infrastructure

* Rural Enterprise Scheme - supporting a diversified and enterprising rural economy

* Vocational Training Scheme - improving occupational skills of farmers and foresters.

The schemes are part of the England Rural Development Programme

(ERDP) which was launched in April 2000. Since then, over £14.7 million has been awarded to a total of 223 projects throughout the East of England.

Emma Powlett, Team manager for Project Based Schemes in the East of England explained:

"We are holding clinics across the region to answer queries and offer guidance on the requirements of the various schemes, eligibility of particular projects, and what applicants should include in a business plan. We may also be able to suggest other sources of funding."

To book a 30 minute-1 hour appointment, potential applicants should contact Sharon Sharpe, on 01223 533 430, or email with a short paragraph explaining the project you're pursuing: Sharon.sharpe@defra.gsi.gov.uk