34 farmers get over $3.1M in agro-incentive grants to boost local agriculture

More than $3.1 million in grant money has been distributed to some 34 farmers as part of the Agricultural Finance Support Programme (Agro-Incentive Grant), administered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries.

On Saturday 14 September 2024, Minister Kazim Hosein distributed the grants to the group of farmers—part of Cycle 7 Batch 2 of the Programme—at the Ministry’s Head Office in Chaguanas, amidst the lively atmosphere of the Namdevco Farmers’ Market.

According to a release from the Ministry, the Agro-Incentive Grant is a key element of the its vision for a modern, competitive, and sustainable agricultural sector, and its efforts to promote innovation, resilience, and sustainability within the agricultural community.

“[Saturday’s] grant distribution goes beyond financial support; it acknowledges the essential role each of you plays in our agricultural sector,” Minister Kazim Hosein told the grant recipients.  “By investing in your projects, we are underscoring our commitment to stimulating a more robust and resilient agricultural industry. Your dedication is pivotal for ensuring food security and economic stability in Trinidad and Tobago, and it shapes the future of our farming community.”

And Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, Senator Avinash Singh, in congratulating the farmers, hailed them as heroes in the agricultural community. He pointed to their vital role in helping feed the country and reassured them of the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to supporting their efforts.

Minister Hosein underscored the broader economic implications of the Grant:

“This is the true power of the Agro-Incentive Grant—not just to fund a project but to empower individuals. We are investing in people who will lead the way in innovation, sustainability, and in turn closer to the goal of achieving food and nutrition security.”

The Ministry explains the 34 Grant recipients represent a diverse cross-section of the agricultural sector, including small-scale farmers and large agribusinesses. The funds will be used for various innovative projects such as state-of-the-art irrigation systems, hydroponic systems, solar panel installations, shade houses, and farm improvements to meet Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards, investments in new breeding stock for livestock, and advanced fishing equipment.

The Ministry recently launched its Farmers’ Registration Portal, which has been developed to enhance accessibility to Ministry services.

Minister Hosein encouraged interested individuals to apply for the farmers’ badge through this portal, noting that it will provide access to a variety of grants, incentives, and programmes offered by the Ministry.

“By obtaining the badge, farmers and fisherfolk can also benefit from the Agricultural Incentive Programme (AIP), which includes cash rebates and exemptions across 92 categories,” he said, “supporting needs such as vehicle purchases, integrated pest management systems, and advancements in livestock, tree crops, and agro processing. The portal aims to simplify the application process and ensure that all eligible individuals can fully utilize the available support.”

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