New Organic Entrepreneurs 2025 – 2028 Investment: £700,000 (£220,000 for Year One) Goal: To invest in the next generation of organic entrepreneurs to boost and diversify the market.
The need Despite the continued steady growth of the organic market (worth £3.7 billion in 2024 – double that of 10 years ago), organic entrepreneurs struggle to gain traction; there is limited access to startup funding, knowledge and peer support. Small business owners are stretched, and almost 60% of new UK businesses fail within their first three years. These challenges prevent the emergence of new, diverse, and vibrant voices and products in the organic sector.
Project objectives •
Scale the programme across the UK, reaching up to 180 additional businesses by August 2028.
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Support a broad diversity of entrants, focusing on underrepresented demographics.
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Increase the supply of organic produce across the entire food supply chain.
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Continuously evolve the programme to ensure it addresses real-world challenges.
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Promotion of, and advocacy for, agroforestry, including through case studies, Agroforestry Shows, ambassador network.
Project activities •
rain entrepreneurs with essential skills T and knowledge to operate sustainable businesses – we will measure improved financial capability, business growth, and organic conversion.
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Build a supportive and inclusive community that encourages collaboration and shared values – we will measure diversity across participants as well as sustained relationships and networks.
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Provide mentoring from experienced professionals and facilitate networking opportunities – we will measure knowledge gained, confidence and networks built.
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