Rural Business Development Grant Scheme Pre-Funding Workshops

Cost: Free

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the Rural Business Development Grant Scheme 2026/27. 

The scheme is available to micro enterprises based in a rural area to support the sustainability and growth of rural micro-businesses across Northern Ireland.

Eligible businesses can apply for funding of up to 50% of costs for capital items up to a maximum of £7,500. The minimum grant awarded will be £500. The total cost of the capital project must be a minimum of £1,000 and must not exceed £30,000.

Individual councils are responsible for managing projects in their council area. Before applying for the scheme, businesses must attend a pre-funding workshop.

These workshops will be held online via Teams. Only those businesses who attend a mandatory workshop will be eligible to apply to the scheme. To register, email rbdgs@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk with your preferred workshop date and an invitation will be issued in advance of the workshop.

Please note that all event cancellations must be made with 48 hours’ notice, otherwise they will be subject to an £8.50 cancellation fee. Paid events cancelled within 24 hours will be charged the full amount.