AN innovative funding opportunity is now available for young people in Herefordshire and Worcestershire under the age of 35.

West Midlands Area Young Farmers Clubs have used Defra funding to launch the Acorn Project to help young people start up in business.

Applicants can apply for matching funding of up to £2,000.

Funding can be used to buy tools, plant and equipment for their new business or help with marketing advice or with business planning.

It can also be used to buy computer equipment for non-agricultural businesses.

"This is an excellent opportunity for young people," said Lionel Hill, from the Worcestershire Rural Hub.

Daunting process

"Applying for funding can be a daunting process but by filling out just two sides of paper, young people can get real help for their business.

"For instance, if you wanted to go contract shearing, you could apply for funds to buy a shearing trailer.

"Even if a young person has already started up a business they can still get funding - for example, if they are selling their own meat, they could apply for funding to purchase a display unit."

The money can also be used to promote a business by helping with marketing advice or business planning.

It can even be used towards a small building project.

Further details and application forms are available from the Worcestershire Rural Hub.

Contact Pauline Yardley on 07980 917339 or, for help from the Herefordshire Rural Hub, call Cathy Meredith on 01432 870316.