Welcome to CARA Wales, agricultural and rural consultancy and advice. We offer an individual, unbiased and efficient service to help move your business forward.

Horticulture Development Scheme (HDS)

The HDS (Window 3) is a Capital grant scheme available to existing commercial horticultural producers across Wales. The Expression of Interest (EoI) is now open and will close on 12 January 2024. The aim of the scheme is to:

  • support existing commercial horticultural producers to develop their businesses through investment in new equipment and technology that offer clear and quantifiable benefits to the horticultural enterprise.
  • enable horticultural businesses to sustainably expand production, diversify into new crops, improve production efficiency and enhance product quality.
  • enable horticultural producers to enter new markets, increase local employment and support the rural economy as part of the green recovery from Covid-19.

The maximum grant award is £100,000 and the minimum is £3,000.

The grant provides a maximum 40% contribution towards capital investments in equipment and machinery, (excluding VAT) which can be demonstrated as offering clear and quantifiable benefits to horticulture enterprises.

Your application may exceed the maximum grant, if selected, the related claim is capped to the maximum £100,000.

For further detailed information on the Scheme, please follow the link below:-

HDS Rules Booklet

If you would like further assistance with your application, please contact us here at CARA on 01570 471516 or by email on ofice@carawales.co.uk