The North West department of agriculture and rural development, in collaboration with the national department of agriculture, recently hosted a well-attended information-sharing session on the blended finance scheme and Agro-Energy Fund for local farmers.
The event, which took place at the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture, was aimed at unpacking the details of how can benefit from these government opportunities.
The blended finance scheme, a strategic partnership between the department of agriculture, Land Bank, Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and Absa, was a key focus of the session. The scheme is designed to enhance access to affordable finance by combining grants with loan funding. It specifically supports inclusive growth, agricultural expansion, and energy-efficient farming practices.
According to the department, more than 200 eligible farmers from across the province attended the session to learn about the application criteria, funding processes, and the range of opportunities available through the blended finance scheme and Agro-Energy Fund.
Related stories
- Land Bank’s Agro-Energy Fund: Step-by-step guide for farmers
- Gauteng launches R100 million agro-processing fund
- KZN MEC calls on churches to start food gardens to fight hunger
Helping farmers understand the funding criteria
Elder Mtshiza of the national department of agriculture provided detailed explanations on the qualification criteria for both financial instruments.
FARMER POLL
📢 Which bank is powering your farming journey?
Tell us which bank you use so we can better advocate for the specialised financial tools and accessible capital needed to help South African farmers overcome growth barriers and thrive!
All submissions are kept strictly confidential.
“The session also included an interactive question-and-answer segment, giving farmers a platform to engage directly with presenters and gain clarity on the available support mechanisms,” she said.
According to the department, this initiative is part of a broader national strategy to support the commercialisation of new-era farmers while promoting sustainable energy use in agriculture through innovative financing solutions.
The roadshow also spotlighted funding opportunities linked to the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP), which includes high-potential sectors such as aquaculture and industrial crops.
READ NEXT: Export ready? Here’s what to know about Sacu
