Women in Agriculture

Image showing a women in agriculture driving a tractor

Our vision is for Scottish agriculture to become a fairer, more inclusive industry, by providing support for women enabling them to develop their skills, build networks, access opportunities and realise their potential, creating equality of opportunity and a diverse, innovative and resilient agricultural industry.

Women have always been an integral part of Scottish agriculture.

  • However, research on the farming sector (2017) conducted by the ministerial appointed Women in Agriculture Task force showed that women in the industry faced many issues, challenges and barriers.

The Women in Agriculture Task force's final report (2019) made recommendations to support equality in the industry, including the development of a Women in Agriculture Development Programme (WiADP). This programme aims to deliver training and support to women in agriculture.

  • The Women in Agriculture progress report highlighted positive changes and the success of the Women in Agriculture Development Programme so far.

The Women in Agriculture Practical Training Fund is open for applications. The fund offers financial support to women in Scottish Agriculture to attend practical and business skills training courses enabling them to develop their skills, build networks and access new opportunities. More information and how to apply.

The Scottish Government carried out an Island Communities Impact Assessment to ensure that women in island communities have equality of opportunity to participate in the Women in Agriculture Development Programme.

More information can be found at Island Communities Impact Assessment.