Call for tender for social farming model projects
The projects can range from working family farms to local community initiatives.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, has announced a competitive public procurement procedure under the 2026 Rural Innovation and Development Fund (RIDF) seeking service providers with the vision and capability to develop a substantial social farming model project.
Minister Heydon stated: “The aim of the model social farming projects is to provide the best social farming experience for the participants. The projects can range from working family farms to local community initiatives. The projects’ goals are to foster inclusion, build self-esteem and improve health and wellbeing for the participants.”
Minister Heydon added: “Funding of €377,000 is available this year subject to a maximum of €150,000 for any one project.
"There will be an option to extend contracts awarded for a further four years.
“Social farming is a rewarding activity that has delivered many benefits, including supporting farm diversification and helping farmers connect with the wider community,” the Minister concluded.
The tender has been posted on the eTenders website (CFT: 7731117 - Social Farming Model project) with a closing date of April 24, 2026, at 12 noon.
