Unlocking New Opportunities: AHDB Funds Scheme for UK Growers
In a significant development for the horticultural sector, the HTA (Horticultural Trades Association) and BOA (British Ornamental Plant Producers) have joined forces to administer the newly established AHDB Funds Scheme for ornamentals. This initiative leverages the remaining balances of horticulture levy payments made by growers to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), and has resulted from nearly 18 months of negotiations with various stakeholders, including the British Growers Association.
A Path Forward for UK Growers
The AHDB Funds Scheme is designed to provide grants that will collectively support UK growers as they navigate one of the most challenging business environments in decades. This funding can be used for a variety of essential projects, including research, development, grower events, and market development initiatives, thereby fostering collaboration and shared growth within the ornamentals sector.
Collaboration for Collective Benefit
Grants will be awarded based on feedback from growers and evaluated on their potential to deliver a collective benefit to the sector. Greg Rhodes, a spokesperson, emphasized the positive impact this funding model will have, stating, “This scheme provides a welcome opportunity to support work to foster growth in UK production.” The initiative builds on ongoing programs aimed at unlocking funding and R&D capabilities, including promising projects with the RHS and Harper Adams University focused on innovative solutions like wireless sensors for irrigation and vine weevil control.
Accessing Legacy Funds
The announcement also comes with the introduction of a new funding model that allows nurseries access to legacy AHDB funds, which had previously been unused since the statutory levy ended. Rhodes expressed optimism about this development, noting, “We invite growers to submit their requests that we know will benefit UK environmental horticulture production.” This initiative offers a beacon of hope, potentially transforming the landscape for UK ornamental growers as they seek to enhance production and sustainability.
Conclusion
With the launch of the AHDB Funds Scheme, the future looks promising for UK growers, who now have access to resources designed to support collective advancements in the horticultural sector. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of collective action, aimed at restoring and boosting confidence among growers in a time of economic uncertainty.
