Support for the installation of young farmers
About this good practice
The purposes of the GP:
• installation of a young farmer for the first time in charge of an agricultural holding as head of the holding;
• improving management, increasing the competitiveness in the agricultural sector, complying with the requirements of environmental protection, hygiene and animal welfare and safety measures at work;
• increasing the number of young farmers who started to practice agriculture in Romania;
• encouraging young people to move to rural areas.
The funds allocated through “Support for the installation of young farmers” in Romania had a positive impact on encouraging young farmers to set up on an agricultural holding.
Many young farmers are integrating sustainable practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, and renewable energy into their operations, improving the overall health of the land and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity. By adhering to environmental regulations and adopting climate-smart agricultural methods, these farmers help improve biodiversity, reduce deforestation, and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.
Active land management, as practiced by these new farmers, is crucial in reducing fire hazards. Young farmers are bringing more land under active and responsible cultivation, which not only reduces fire risks but also contributes to better soil and water management. This directly addresses climate change by maintaining healthy ecosystems and reducing carbon emissions from land degradation.
Resources needed
Total allocation: 578 mil. Euro (EAFRD)
Non-refundable support of a maximum of 50,000 Euros / beneficiary, which was granted will be awarded in the form of a premium in two installments:
• 75% upon signing the financing decision;
• 25% depending on the correct implementation of the BP.
Evidence of success
The aim of “Support for the installation of young farmers” in Romania is to repopulate rural areas by offering financial support to young farmers.
14.008 young farmers were funded, demonstrating the interest in this initiative. Of the total beneficiaries, 4.000 were women.
This influx of young farmers helps stabilize rural populations and reinvigorate local economies, reducing the risk of these areas being abandoned.
Contracted value: 558 mil. Euro
Potential for learning or transfer
Expanding the GP to other countries offers an effective way to fight rural abandonment, stimulate the agricultural sector, and support environmental sustainability, while also addressing issues like youth unemployment and climate change adaptation. However, successful implementation requires careful adaptation to local contexts and challenges.
For easy implementation, countries would need a well-defined policy framework like Romania’s, where clear eligibility criteria, timelines and financial supports are laid out. Funding could come from a combination of national governments and other bodies like the EU or development banks.
Since many countries face the dual challenge of rural depopulation and climate change, climate-smart agricultural practices should be a core element. Promoting eco-friendly farming methods, such as organic farming, water conservation, and renewable energy use, will make these programs more appealing to young farmers and align them with global sustainability goals.
Further information
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.