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Action for Growth in Rural Economy
Adapting to a changing rural economy With our rural economy experiencing significant change, support is needed to help businesses adapt to meet new challenges. These changes have been heralded by:
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'Action for Growth in the Rural Economy' (AGRE) is an initiative to help protect rural businesses against economic decline, by encouraging diversification to adapt to changing markets. It provides free support and training to those who own or manage, or are employed in an agricultural or rural* business.
AGRE is designed to help people in rural businesses expand and increase their skills through training and workshops designed to:
- Improve business planning skills
- Improve computer skills
- Improve competitiveness
The AGRE project is operated through a partnership of local organisations who each have a role in maintaining and improving our local economy.
The partners are, East Herts District Council, North Herts District Council, Dacorum Borough Council, University of Hertfordshire, Hertford Regional College, Oaklands College, North Herts College, Academy of Learning, Business Link Hertfordshire and Rural Enterprise Project.
What's on offer
AGRE can offer solutions to business problems and add value to your business in several ways;
Improving business skills
Reviewing your business and planning for the future is fundamental to success. AGRE offers you training to improve your business and composing a business plan. This is complemented with advice from the Farm Business Advisory Service. As well as helping you run your business your business plan is also needed to apply for grants through the re-formed Common Agricultural Policy (Registered Agriculture Holdings only), and other grant schemes (e.g. for village shops and pubs.
* rural = farms, village shops, golf courses, garden centres, equestrian centres, small holdings, blacksmiths, thatchers, markets, gardeners, food producers, etc.
IT training
AGRE also offers you training in using a computer to help you in your business. Training is offered at all levels so whether you're a complete beginner or a whizz-kid, there's something for you. Courses also include how to design websites and use the internet to make informed business decisions. The training programmes on offer in both computer and business skills are flexible to suit your needs.
New technology in farm management
AGRE has new software in environmental management, particularly of interest to food producers. The tool will help you to manage inputs more effectively and demonstrate good environmental and sustainable practices.
Talking business
A great deal of business is done through making contacts with other local businesses. The AGRE rural business network will offer you the chance to attend a programme of events. Here you get ideas for new business ventures, hear how training has benefited similar businesses to your own and hear speakers talk about topics important to you. The network also offers you newsletters and information important to farmers and rural businesses.
Eligibility
You can use the services which AGRE provides if:
(a)
- You are over 18 years of age and under 64
- You own, or are a manager, of a rural business
- You employ fewer than 50 people
OR
- (b)
You are an employee in a business which meets the above criteria
Costs
The costs of the project are being met through a combination of funds from the partners and the European Social Fund. This means those businesses which are eligible, will not have to pay for any of the services provided, subject to demand.
Further details
If you are interested in finding out more about AGRE please contact,
Ron Chalkley on Tel: 01462 474 254
Email: service@north-herts.gov.uk.