If you are an agricultural entrepreneur and are planning production that is more environmentally sustainable or improves animal welfare, it is worth considering the investment support offered by ARIB. The application round will last until November 19, 2025 and its aim is to help agricultural producers make investments that reduce the environmental impact and increase the sustainability of production.

Entrepreneurs involved in the production, storage or pre-sale preparation of agricultural products can apply for support. Eligible activities include, for example, the construction of production buildings or facilities, the acquisition of environmentally friendly machinery and equipment, and the reconstruction of existing irrigation systems. It is important that the planned investment is related to at least one of the following objectives: mitigating climate change, improving water and air quality, protecting soil and biodiversity, increasing animal welfare or biosafety.

Kristel Võsu, Service Manager of the ARIB Investment Support Development Office, emphasizes: "Increased demands to reduce the impact of agricultural production require investments from entrepreneurs." He adds that it is precisely such subsidies that help make changes that support the development of the entire sector in a more environmentally friendly direction.

The budget for the 2025 application round is 48.6 million euros, which is divided between different production areas. The largest part – 13 million euros – is intended for investments in milk production, followed by 11 million euros for the cultivation of cereals, oilseeds and protein-rich plants. In the field of animal husbandry, there are separate budgets for pig and poultry farming and other animal husbandry. Other agricultural products, including beekeeping, have also been supported.

The amount of support per applicant can reach one million euros, and in the case of livestock buildings even up to 1.5 million euros. 60% of the funding comes from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and 40% from the Estonian state budget.

It is important for an entrepreneur to check whether the desired machinery or equipment is included in the ARIB reference price catalogue and whether the activity meets the conditions of the support regulation. It is also important to submit the application on time. ARIB recommends participating in a webinar explaining the conditions for applying for support and submitting an application in e-PRIA.

The entire support measure is part of a larger strategy aimed at making the Estonian agricultural sector more environmentally sustainable and resilient. The state sees that sustainable production cannot be the sole responsibility of entrepreneurs. Therefore, this support is intended specifically for those who want to develop production in a way that is better for the environment, animals, and the future.

If you are planning an investment that will help reduce the environmental burden or improve the living conditions of animals, now is the right time to make it happen.