Good Practice - Project
The ‘Point Vert’ experience - test areas for beginners in market gardening
Creating a testing area for young entrepreneurs wishing to work in organic market gardening or horticulture, where they can receive training and advice.
General information
RDP Priority
- P6. Social inclusion and local development
RDP Focus Area
- 6B: Local development
RDP Measure
- M19: LEADER/CLLD
Summary
The Local Action Group (LAG) Pays des Condruses provides free access to land for young entrepreneurs, for a period of 18 months, as well as training and advice on organic market gardening or horticulture. Test areas between 0.1 ha and 1 ha are available where they can improve their skills and start their business. The LAG has assigned a part time project manager to coordinate the scheme. Partnerships with local and regional service providers are also established to provide technical and advisory services to the new entrepreneurs.
Results
Between 2013 and 2017, the test area hosted 11 candidates, of which, 6 started successful organic farms in the area.
This initiative is the first one in Wallonia and has proven efficient both in terms of socio-economic performance, as well as of local development, since it enables young talents to remain in the area.
Promoter
LAG Pays des Condruses
Funding
Total budget: 150 000 (EUR)
RDP contribution: 50 000 (EUR) (corresponding to 1/5 FTE for 5 years)
Federal Fund for the social economy & Marshall Fund: 100 000 (EUR)
Resources
gp_be_test_points_entrepreneurs_359_web_rev_3.pdf
(PDF – 425.9 KB)
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