Applications are now open for the fourth tranche of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; Innovative Forest Technology Scheme: Module 2 – Investment Aid for the Development of the Forest Tree Nursery Sector. The scheme supports commercial Forest Reproductive Material (FRM) suppliers, including forest nurseries and seed collectors, to enhance the quantity, quality and diversity of native tree species. FRM suppliers can receive up to €250,000 in funding for investments in native forest tree production.
Minister of State for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae TD, announced the opening of the scheme on November 4th 2025 and said:
“The funding available through this scheme will help to support the forest tree nursery sector in delivering high-quality trees, which will in turn help us to realise our ambitious planting targets under the Forestry Programme 2023-2027.”
You can read more in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine press release.
The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 31 December 2025. Further information on how to apply is available on the Department’s website.
About the Innovative Forest Technology Scheme: Module 2 – Investment Aid for the Development of the Forest Tree Nursery Sector:
“This module will focus on seed supply and nursery infrastructure with the aim of improving the resilience and environmental value of forest ecosystems. It is intended to assist in the development of the native forest tree nursery sector in Ireland, including seed collection, by grant aiding capital investments in specialised equipment, as well as technology adoption specific to native forest tree production. In addition, this module will support the production of native tree reproductive material in order to address the anticipated increased demand for the native and broadleaf trees in the Forestry programme 2023 – 2027. For afforestation and reforestation targets to be realised, an indigenous supply of reproductive material and plants is required. The availability of more trees sourced from Ireland will give landowners and foresters greater certainty over supply and can also boost the green economy, while also reducing phytosanitary risk. This module will help seed and tree suppliers of all sizes, from established nurseries to smaller nurseries and new entrants looking to diversify into the sector. Any private, or third sector organisation that will use the funding to support the production of tree seed or planting stock for forestry purposes may apply. This will help to improve not only the quantity but also the quality, diversity, and biosecurity of supply.” – Abstract from the document.
Who can apply and what is covered under the scheme:
The scheme is open to seed and tree suppliers of all sizes, from smaller operations to established nurseries. It is also available to new entrants to the sector seeking to diversify their business. Any private, or third sector organisation that will use the funding to support the production of tree seed or planting stock for forestry purposes may apply.
Applicants must be registered as a supplier of Forest Reproductive Material under Council Directive 1999/105/EC on the marketing of forest reproductive material – transposed into Irish law by SI No. 618/2002 – European Communities (Marketing of Forest Reproductive Material) Regulations 2002).
The types of projects and items eligible for funding may include the following:
- Seed collection equipment.
- Seed storage infrastructure.
- Polytunnel infrastructure / equipment.
- Irrigation systems and infrastructure.
- Transplanting systems.
- Grading machines.
- Biosecurity investments such as water treatment and refrigeration equipment.
- General costs linked to items above.
- Cost of native tree species seed.
Application:
Applications are now being accepted for the scheme until Wednesday, 31 December 2025. Download the scheme document, frequently asked questions document and the application form to get started. Applications may be emailed to Approvals.ForestService@agriculture.gov.ie