Find more funding
There are many other organisations who may be offering funding that will help you, and our handy funding search tool brings them all together.
Agritourism Investment Scheme 2026: Deadline Approaching
Funding to help farms and crofts grow visitor experiences, strengthen rural businesses and support Scotland’s expanding agritourism sector.
With the Agritourism Investment Scheme (AIS) 2026 closing soon, farmers and crofters across Scotland are being urged to submit their applications before midnight on 13 March 2026.
The scheme offers capital grants to help agritourism businesses grow, diversify and strengthen their long‑term resilience — but the deadline to secure support is fast approaching.
⏳ A competitive fund with a fast‑approaching deadline
AIS opened on 19 January 2026 and provides up to 40% of eligible capital costs, with grants of up to £50,000 available for projects that improve visitor facilities, expand on‑farm experiences or enhance farm retail. At the maximum rate, a £10,000 investment could receive £4,000 in support.
Because the scheme is competitive and the budget is capped at £1 million, not all applicants will receive funding — making well‑prepared applications essential.
🌾 Why this funding matters
Agritourism continues to grow as a key part of Scotland’s rural economy. The scheme supports projects that help farms and crofts:
- Develop new visitor experiences rooted in farming and food
- Improve or expand visitor‑ready infrastructure
- Strengthen farm retail and local food offerings
- Create and sustain rural employment
- Contribute to the national ambition of 1,000 agritourism or farm retail businesses by 2030
These investments help diversify income, attract visitors, and build resilience in rural communities.
🧭 What applicants need to know
AIS supports a wide range of capital improvements, from upgrading facilities to creating new agritourism experiences. Support levels may vary depending on the project’s aims and expected outcomes, and successful applicants will be notified of their agreed rate.
Given the competitive nature of the scheme, applicants are encouraged to:
- Demonstrate clear economic and community benefits
- Show how the investment will strengthen long‑term business sustainability
- Prepare supporting documents early to avoid last‑minute delays
📅 Key dates
- Applications opened: 19 January 2026
- Applications close: Midnight, 13 March 2026
- Total budget: £1 million
🔗 Apply before the deadline
Full guidance and the application form are available online. Applicants should read the criteria carefully and submit their proposals as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
