Supports to Stimulate Newly Recognised Producer Organisations Launched

Rolling applications (assesses in tranches) from 2025-2027 are currently open for groups of producers to develop recognised producer organisations across different sub-sectors, including beef and sheep, milk, fruit and vegetables, potatoes and tillage.

Formalised producer organisations provide the space for a group of farmers to coordinate and improve supply chain management with potential buyers, as well as facilitate farmer collaboration, such as enhanced communication and knowledge exchange and machinery and labour sharing.

The Early-Stage Support for Producer Organisations (ESSPO) Scheme, operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), will offer a maximum of €10,000 annually over the first three years after recognition to support administrative functions. Separate funding of €3,000 is also available to cover the costs of legal and business advice offered by approved facilitators on producer organisation formation and the drawing up applications.

The deadline for receipt of the first tranche of applications is 28 May 2025