A Big Step Forward for the Potato Sector

I am delighted to share some fantastic news: I have now officially signed the grant agreement between the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and GB Potatoes.  This agreement unlocks the residual potato levy reserves for projects that will benefit the entire potato industry.  While it has taken time to reach this point, it represents a pivotal moment for GB Potatoes and our sector as a whole.

It is important to emphasise that these funds are not for GB Potatoes as an organisation but is designated grant funding for seven specific projects.  These projects are designed to support crucial industry-wide efforts.  However, GB Potatoes still relies on your support.  If you’re passionate about making a tangible difference and driving meaningful change in the UK potato industry, now is the time to act. To those who are already members, thank you for your continued backing.  But to move forward effectively, we need your neighbours and farming colleagues who are undecided to join us.  Growing our membership is critical to building the momentum required to advocate for the sector and push the agenda forward. 

Since the closure of AHDB Potatoes, our sector has faced some tough challenges.  We’ve been grappling with threats from diseases, difficulties in accessing essential plant protection products, and the uncertainty surrounding funding for critical projects.

This grant represents a game-changing opportunity.  It will not only enable us to launch new initiatives but also provide stability to ongoing projects that previously faced year-to-year funding uncertainties. 

This grant is more than just funding—it’s a foundation.  It allows us to strengthen key projects and move toward a sustainable, industry-funded model that will secure the future of the potato sector.  This is our chance to take control, tackle obstacles head-on, and build resilience for years to come.

The road ahead is exciting, and I am proud to be part of this transformational journey.  Together, we can ensure a prosperous and thriving future for the potato industry.

Read the full press release by clicking on the link below.

https://www.gb-potatoes.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/AHDB-GB-Potatoes-grant-agreement-151124.doc