Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for FAREI's Rs 500,000 Sheltered Farming Grant
FAREI offers 50% grants up to Rs 500,000 for sheltered farming structures. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire application process, eligibility requirements, and success tips.
This comprehensive step-by-step guide walks you through the entire FAREI grant application process. Follow these instructions carefully to maximize your chances of receiving up to Rs 500,000 for your sheltered farming project.
Application Timeline Overview
Register as a Farmer with FAREI
Estimated time: 3-5 business days
Before applying for any grant, you must be registered as a farmer with FAREI (Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute). This is the foundation of your application.
Required Documents for FAREI Registration:
FAREI Office Locations
Main office: Réduit, Mauritius. Regional offices available in Flacq, Mahebourg, and Pamplemousses. Call 466 5800 to find your nearest office.
Develop Your Business Plan
Critical step - take your time
Your business plan is the most important part of your application. FAREI evaluates applications based on viability, food security contribution, and sustainability.
Business Plan Components:
1. Executive Summary (1 page)
Brief overview of your project, location, crops, expected yields, and funding request.
2. Farm Description (2-3 pages)
- Land size and location
- Type of sheltered farming structure planned
- Crops you will grow (be specific!)
- Growing methods (hydroponics, soil, etc.)
3. Market Analysis (1-2 pages)
- Who will buy your produce?
- Current market prices for your crops
- Competitors and your advantages
- Sales channels (markets, hotels, supermarkets)
4. Financial Projections (2-3 pages)
- Total startup costs breakdown
- Monthly operating expenses
- Revenue projections (Year 1, 2, 3)
- Break-even analysis
Sample Financial Projection Template
| Item | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected Yield (kg) | 5,000 | 8,000 | 10,000 |
| Avg Price per kg (Rs) | 150 | 150 | 160 |
| Gross Revenue (Rs) | 750,000 | 1,200,000 | 1,600,000 |
| Operating Costs (Rs) | 400,000 | 500,000 | 600,000 |
| Net Profit (Rs) | 350,000 | 700,000 | 1,000,000 |
Obtain Equipment Quotations
Get at least 3 quotes from registered suppliers
Important Requirement
You must obtain at least 3 quotations from different suppliers for each category of equipment. Quotations must be on company letterhead with valid dates.
Quotation Requirements:
Must Include:
- ✓ Company letterhead & logo
- ✓ BRN (Business Registration Number)
- ✓ Detailed item descriptions
- ✓ Unit prices and totals
- ✓ Validity period (min 60 days)
Avoid:
- ✗ Handwritten quotes
- ✗ Quotes from unregistered sellers
- ✗ Expired quotations
- ✗ Second-hand equipment
- ✗ Quotes from family members
Need a Quotation?
Planter.mu provides official quotations for all indoor farming equipment, including grow lights, hydroponics systems, grow tents, and climate control. Contact us at hello@planter.mu
Complete the Application Form
Available at FAREI offices or online
The official application form can be obtained from any FAREI office. Fill it out completely - incomplete forms are automatically rejected.
Form Sections:
Section A: Personal Details
Name, address, NIC, contact info, bank details
Section B: Farm Details
Location, size, current land use, water source
Section C: Project Description
Crops, structure type, production targets
Section D: Budget
Equipment costs, grant amount requested
Submit Your Application
Final checklist before submission
Final Submission Checklist
Pro Tip: Keep Copies
Make photocopies of your entire application before submission. If anything is lost, you'll have backups. Also request a receipt/acknowledgment slip when submitting.
What Happens After Submission?
Initial Review (Week 1-2)
FAREI staff check your application for completeness. Missing documents = automatic return.
Technical Evaluation (Week 3-4)
Experts review your business plan, site suitability, and project viability.
Site Visit (Week 5-6)
A FAREI officer may visit your proposed site to verify details and assess feasibility.
Committee Decision (Week 7-8)
Grant committee reviews and approves/rejects applications. You'll be notified by mail or phone.
Grant Disbursement (Week 9-12)
Upon approval, funds are released to your bank account or directly to approved suppliers.
Start Your Application Today
The Rs 500,000 FAREI grant can cover half your sheltered farming investment. Don't wait - fund availability is limited and applications are processed on a first-come basis.