The First Minister visited the Black Isle Show on Thursday as the Scottish Government announced a new £14.25 million round of funding to help farmers and crofters invest in their businesses.
The latest round of the Future Farming Investment Scheme will offer grants of up to £20,000, with applications due to open in winter 2026.
The funding is expected to support at least 725 farming and crofting businesses across Scotland, helping them modernise their operations and improve long term resilience.
Projects eligible for support will include improving soil health, creating hedgerows and upgrading livestock management infrastructure.
The Scottish Government said enhanced levels of support will be available for new entrants to farming, businesses based in the Highlands and Islands and projects delivering environmental benefits.
Highlands and Islands MSP Maree Todd welcomed First Minister John Swinney to the Black Isle Show, describing the investment as an important boost for rural communities.
She said:
“Farmers and crofters play a vital role in producing high-quality food, supporting jobs and caring for our natural environment.
“That is why this SNP Government is taking action to ensure rural Scotland and our food and drink sector continue to thrive, with investment that helps businesses adapt, innovate and meet the challenges ahead.
“This funding will deliver significant benefits for agricultural businesses across the Highlands & Islands.
“It will support farmers and crofters to invest in new equipment, modernise their operations and respond to challenges such as climate change and increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
“The next phase of the scheme has been shaped by feedback from farmers and crofters and demonstrates the Scottish Government’s commitment to supporting a competitive, sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.”
The announcement coincided with one of the biggest events in the Highland agricultural calendar, bringing together farmers, crofters, businesses and rural organisations from across the region.
Maree Todd said the show provides an important opportunity to hear directly from those working in the sector.
“The Black Isle Show is always a highlight of summer recess and provides a fantastic opportunity to meet with the farmers and crofters who contribute so much to the strength of our rural economy.
“It is vital that we continue to listen to their experiences, understand the challenges they face and recognise the many opportunities ahead for the sector.”
The Future Farming Investment Scheme forms part of the Scottish Government’s wider programme to support a competitive, sustainable and resilient agricultural sector while helping businesses prepare for future challenges.
