Today, Scottish Government Ministers met with NFU Scotland’s Next Generation Committee and Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) Agri-Affairs Committee representatives and key industry stakeholders at St Andrew’s House, Edinburgh, to discuss the future of agriculture in Scotland and the opportunities and challenges facing the next generation.
Attendees included First Minister John Swinney MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform, and Islands Mairi Gougeon MSP, and Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie MSP. Key industry representatives included NFU Scotland, SAYFC, Farming Opportunities for New Entrants (FONE), Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Lantra Scotland, and the Scottish Land Matching Service.
The summit focused on three priorities for new entrants: access to finance, land, and training and upskilling. NFUS highlighted its proposal for a government-backed loan scheme to support new farmers and asked for updates on the research currently carried out by Scottish Government. Discussions also included the Starter Farm initiative, as we welcomed Minister Fairlie’s announcement at our AgriScot seminar announcing that Forestry and Land Scotland are offering 14 new entrant opportunities next year, with stakeholders stressing the need for continued development and progression to ensure long-term business security.
Training and upskilling were emphasised as essential to building a sustainable agricultural workforce. Stakeholders encouraged continued support for practical training and apprenticeships, including financial incentives for agricultural businesses hiring apprentices on farm.
Photo: First Minister John Swinney Lucy McGillivray (NFUS) and Mairi Gougeon MSP
NFUS’ Next Generation Chair, Ben McClymont, said: "It’s encouraging to see Scottish Government Ministers and key industry stakeholders coming together to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the next generation of farmers. Access to land, finance, and training are crucial if we are to support new entrants and build a sustainable future for Scottish agriculture. These measures will give young farmers the skills, experience, and confidence to turn their passion for the land into a lifelong career."
The importance of multi-annual funding commitments was also highlighted, providing certainty for rural businesses. Plans for a Next Generation Conference in January 2026 were announced, bringing together young farmers from across the UK and Europe to share knowledge and experiences.
First Minister John Swinney said: “Securing the next generation of Scotland’s farmers and crofters is vital for rural communities, our nation’s food security, and long-term economic resilience.
“The Scottish Government is committed to supporting young and aspiring farmers and crofters through improved access to land, finance, and skills.
“We have already taken significant steps through initiatives such as the £0.6 million Next Generation Practical Training Fund and the £1.8 million Land-Based Pre-Apprenticeship Programme, which is expected to support around 400 graduates over the next three years.
“As we move forward it is crucial that we maintain regular and direct dialogue with young entrants to ensure that our support is tailored to their experiences, ambitions and concerns.”
The summit concluded with a shared commitment to ensuring that the next generation of farmers and crofters remains at the heart of Scotland’s agricultural future.
NOTES TO EDITOR:
- A photograph of the event is attached.
Ends
Contact Megan Williams on 07920 018619