CAP Investment Support Calls Open in Bulgaria

Two long-anticipated investment support instruments under the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are now open for applications in Bulgaria. The calls are part of the Strategic Plan for the Development of Agriculture and Rural Areas 2023–2027 and together allocate around €278 million to eligible farmers.

A significant share of the funding is earmarked for vulnerable sectors, notably horticulture, livestock production, and organic farming. Farmers may apply under one or both interventions, with a combined ceiling of €1.8 million in eligible investment costs per applicant for the current EU programming period.

Investments in Agricultural Holdings in Bulgaria

The Investments in Agricultural Holdings intervention is designed to support farm modernization and mechanization. Eligible investments include construction or renovation of agricultural buildings, purchase or leasing of machinery and equipment, establishment or replanting of permanent crops, and investments in irrigation infrastructure and water management technologies.

According to the program description, the intervention “aims to support investments in modernization and mechanization in agricultural holdings,” including renewable energy production and storage for on-farm use. Beekeeping equipment and livestock-related water quality improvements are also eligible.

The maximum eligible cost per project is €1 million, with grants covering up to 50% of costs. Financial support can increase by up to 25% for producer groups or cooperatives, and by up to 10% for projects in sensitive sectors. The budget for this intervention totals €193.5 million, with applications open until February 20, 2026.

Investments in Agricultural Holdings Aimed at Protecting Environmental Components

The second intervention focuses on environmental protection and organic production. It supports investments in organic permanent plantations, organic livestock facilities, preservation of local breeds, composting installations, and precision or digital farming technologies.

The intervention also supports renewable energy investments and projects exceeding animal welfare and biosecurity requirements. As stated in the program framework, it supports “investments aimed at exceeding animal welfare requirements and increasing biosecurity.”

This call has a budget of €84.6 million, with similar grant rates and bonus thresholds as the first intervention. Applications will be accepted until March 6, 2026.

Source - https://igrownews.com