The second round of applications for the SOILCRATES grant is now open to farmers interested in improving their soil health and quality.

The deadline for submitting applications is Sunday, January 25.

SOILCRATES Ireland is a soil health living lab, a part of project SOILCRATE, funded under the HORIZON Europe Research and Innovation actions in support of the implementation of the Adaptation to Climate Change Mission.

The SOILCRATES Ireland Living Lab is located in counties Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary, working directly with farmers in the mid-west.

It is dedicated to addressing Ireland’s unique agricultural and environmental challenges. 

The lab brings together local farmers, government bodies, advisory services, and community organisations to co-design and co-create solutions that are ecologically sustainable and economically viable.

The main topics the lab aims to tackle are: addressing soil health issues, such as nitrogen overuse and poor drainage; improve soil structure; introducing innovative practices like biochar application, and intercropping with nitrogen-fixing plants; and improve biodiversity with the key focus of restoring and preserving ground quality across Europe.

"Through this call, we want to empower local communities to co-create practical, science-based solutions for their own regions,” SOILCRATES said.

With an overall budget of €1.6 million, this funding scheme will support at least 40 local projects across France, Ireland, Spain, and The Netherlands, each running for one to two years within the project’s four Living Labs.

Farm owners, farmers associations, local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and research/education organisations who are committed to improving soil health through collaborative and practical solutions are eligible to apply for the grant, with selected participants able to receive subgrants ranging from €20,000-€60,000 per project.

Anyone interested in participating would need to fill out an application by January 25 through the official submission system.