Farm Diversification

The SAC Diversification, Non Food Crop and Renewable Energy Database is a series of information sheets on a range of topical alternative enterprises, non-food crops and renewable energy projects.  There are currently over 50 sheets on the database.

Each sheet includes a general description of the enterprise, the market, physical requirements, capital and operating costs, possible returns, legal requirements and constraints, grants and financial incentives, training and further reading.

The sheets are aimed at providing initial information about the enterprise showing what is involved in setting up. The database is funded by the Scottish Government's Veterinary and Advisory Services Programme and has been produced by SAC's diversification, non-food crop and renewable energy specialists and is updated on a regular basis with help from specialists and advisers throughout SAC.

Farmers considering diversification should note that special consideration should be given to the VAT aspects of diversification as the new activity may not be treated the same as the existing farm business from a VAT stand point.