Is diversification the right option for me?
There a number of successful diversification schemes within the Yorkshire and Humber area. You may find it useful to speak to other farmers who have diversified to help you to decide whether your proposal could succeed. They have valuable first hand experience of local market conditions, skills and resources required.
You may also be eligible for free planning consultancy advice about your proposal if you intend to apply for grant aid under DEFRA's Rural Enterprise Scheme. For further details please contact DEFRA on 08459 556000.
Before spending money on submitting a planning application you should consider the business requirements. A business plan is the standard means of deciding whether your proposals are financially viable. Although a business plan is not essential, most banks, building societies or funding organisations will ask for a plan if they are to lend you money or pay grants.
Farm Business Advice Service (FBAS) which has been developed in conjunction with DEFRA provides basic business advice for farmers subject to eligibility and helps them develop an action plan for their business. Funding is available until 2004. For more information about this service contact Business Link on 0845 6009006.
