The government's Agriculture Development Scheme (ADS) pays for projects designed to help farmers and primary producers in England become more competitive and work together better through improved marketing.

Since 2000 almost £14million has been awarded under the ADS.

Food and Farming Minister Lord Whitty said:

"ADS grants help farmers work together, add value to their products and boost profits. The extra money will help farmers and rural businesses continue this good work. "

The latest ADS grant went to Meadow Quality Ltd for a new computer system to save livestock farmers time and money by cutting their paperwork and better matching stock to market demands.

From September ADS will fund only projects designed to have national impact. Up to now, it has been open to regionally piloted projects, but this option was rarely taken up.

Applications for regionally piloted projects will be considered up to the panel in June, but not after that. Anyone wishing to submit an application for this type of project must make sure Defra receives it by 8 April 2005, for the panel in June.

Source: Defra - 22nd February 2005