Written question WQ82804

The Welsh Government continues to provide support to new entrants and those wishing to retire. One such programme of support is Venture which identifies and matches established landowners seeking to enter into a contract or share farming arrangement with those young new entrants seeking a route into the industry. The programme addresses the issue of matching those who wish to retire from farming, and those at the other end of the scale who were taking their first steps within the agricultural industry. It guides people on both sides through the key steps required to find a potential business partner. An integrated package of training, mentoring, specialist advice and business support equips participants with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to help them achieve their goals.

As of May 2021, 260 individuals are participating in Venture, of which 44 seekers and 43 providers have matches agreed to date, and 43 Joint Venture agreements are now in place.

In addition, once established, new entrants would be eligible for mainstream support including Farming Connect and the Farm Business Grant which enables small investments in equipment and new technology to enable businesses to improve their technical and financial performance and the Glastir Small Grant scheme which supports on-farm environmental improvements as well as the related infrastructure improvements.

Funded by the Welsh Government, colleges and post-16 learning providers offer a range of agricultural, forestry and environmental courses. A collaborative, sector-wide approach is necessary to ensure provision across all land-based and related courses meet the current and future requirements of local employers and economies.