In today's article from the "Lawyer on the Farm" series, we would like to inform you that the application process for grants for young farmers began on June 2, 2025. The positive news is that young farmers should have an easier time obtaining funding thanks to modifications to the scoring system, which we will discuss in more detail later in this article. In our opinion, these changes were extremely necessary and long-awaited by young farmers, who have repeatedly expressed the need to change the rules for granting premiums in the "Young Farmer" program.

The changes affect the points system that determines the award of the premium. These changes provide young farmers with easier access to support. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development took into account the feedback from young farmers, who noted that achieving the required number of points was extremely difficult.

We emphasize, however, that the minimum threshold of 7 points remains unchanged.
So what specifically has changed? A significant new feature is the higher points awarded for obtaining professional qualifications, with each level of education gaining increased value. This is intended to encourage the expansion of knowledge and skills, which is especially important today. Agriculture is transforming; the introduction of intelligent solutions (so-called Agriculture 4.0) is increasing the importance of new technologies, which require specialized knowledge.

Additionally, the maximum number of points that can be earned has increased to 5 points, not 4. However, this is just one of many changes introduced. Another important aspect is the issue of farm takeover and age difference. This year, it is not necessary to fully take over the farm to receive age difference points. However, farmers who choose to fully take over the farm have a greater chance of receiving a subsidy this year. This is due to the fact that the number of points for farm takeover has been increased from 4 to 5 points.

We're also pleased to announce that livestock farmers can also be pleased. Our analysis shows that the score for livestock production has increased. If more than 50% of a farm's total economic size comes from this sector, you can earn 3 points.

The list of investments eligible for funding remains unchanged
from last year, meaning grants can be used for construction or the purchase of agricultural land.

In times of rising land costs, this is a constant and valuable contribution to expanding farm acreage. Additionally, the grant can also be used to purchase livestock or new agricultural machinery. The "Young Farmer" program offers numerous investment opportunities. Part of the grant can be allocated to the purchase of current assets for production, including fertilizers, plant protection products, and seeds.

Regardless of the above, we also draw your attention to several points in the program application process that are extremely important and often overlooked by young farmers. Our experience shows that the detail of the business plan is crucial. We have repeatedly demonstrated that only a well-prepared business plan leads to a successful application. Therefore, we emphasize that a business plan should be realistic, coherent, and well-thought-out.

It should be remembered that at least 70% of the subsidy value must be allocated to fixed assets, and farmers often focus on expenses, but do not specify how they will affect the economic development of the farm and the implementation of the business plan indicators within 3 years.

It's also important that after receiving the first tranche of the subsidy, the young farmer is obligated to run the farm as its manager for at least five years. This is a long-term commitment that, of course, must be fully implemented to avoid negative consequences.

We often encounter farmers submitting applications at the very end of the deadline, which carries a certain risk of the business plan not meeting the requirements or simply containing ill-conceived assumptions that the farmer is unable to meet. Therefore, we remind you that young farmers have until July 31, 2025, to submit their applications. It's important to remember that all applications must be submitted electronically via the ARiMR Electronic Services Platform (PUE).

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
The law is current as of June 25, 2025.

Paweł Kopytowski

Trainee attorney
+48 22 856 36 60 | p.kopytowski@kglegal.pl