THE opening of the €854,000 Equine Technical Support and Equine Breeding Scheme 2027 was announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD this week.

The scheme is designed to support the development of the native equine industry through targeted investment under three programme headings: general programme, training and education programme and research into equine diseases programmes.

The Minister said: “I am pleased to announce the launch of the Equine Technical Support and Equine Breeding Scheme 2027, which represents an investment of €854,000 in the Irish equine sector. This funding demonstrates the Department’s ongoing commitment to supporting a sector that makes an important contribution to our rural economy, as well as to the social and cultural fabric of Ireland.

“The scheme provides targeted support for a range of projects across the equine industry, with the aim of further enhancing the quality of equine breeding. In 2026, funding was awarded to 10 organisations to deliver 38 innovative projects covering studbook development, breeding, education, and research into equine diseases. I look forward to approving further projects under the 2027 scheme, helping to strengthen the sector and support its sustainable, long-term growth.”

Project proposals and completed applications for funding in 2027 must be submitted to the Department by 5pm on Friday, December 11th, 2026.