Farmers and growers across the UK聽 are set to benefit from 拢12.6m in new funding from the Government鈥檚 Farming Innovation Programme Competitions.
The two new 鈥楧ragons鈥� Den for farming鈥� competitions are backing research and development of innovative solutions that best cut costs, reduce seasonal labour, improve animal health and tackle wider industry challenges.聽
They will be delivered in partnership with Innovate UK and will build on previously funded ideas like robotic strawberry pickers and early-warning health systems for cattle.
鈥淭his is about giving farming businesses the tools they need to thrive,鈥� said Farming Minister, Daniel Zeichner.
鈥淏y working with investors to fund and develop new equipment and technology, we are helping farms become more resilient, productive and profitable.聽聽
鈥淭hese grants put the Plan for Change into action 鈥� supporting farmers to adapt, compete and grow, whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.鈥澛�
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The competitions, which open this autumn, adds to the record 拢11.8bn allocated to sustainable farming and food production over this Parliament.聽
It comes amid the Government鈥檚 New Deal for Farmers, which is looking to support growth and help farm businesses return to profitability.聽
The Seasonal Worker Visa Scheme has also been extended for five years and nearly 拢250m in farming grants are said to be driving innovation and productivity.
There are plans for a new 拢200m National Biosecurity Centre to protect livestock and former NFU president, Minette Batters, has been appointed to advise on reforms to boost farm profits.聽
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