"We welcome any groups keen to tackle a shared problem or develop a new opportunity related to the primary industries to apply for the fund," says Investment Programmes Director, Justine Gilliland. "SFF supports farmers and researchers involved at grass-roots level and each year we receive a very high calibre of project applications."

A total of up to $7 million is available this funding round to successful applicants for their projects starting from 1 July 2017.

"We encourage anyone who is interested in applying to contact an MPI investment adviser to discuss their ideas as soon as possible."

Applications close on 8 September 2016. Feedback will be given on ideas and draft applications until 18 August 2016 at which point no further assistance can be given.

Over the past sixteen years, SFF has invested over $125 million in projects benefiting New Zealand's primary industries. The funding investment by MPI in each project is supplemented by significant cash co-funding and in-kind support by industry, community groups and individuals. SFF can fund up to 80% of a project.