Contracts for the allocation of non-repayable support from the European Union, covering 60 to 70% of investments in agricultural holdings through the IPARD III programme under sub-measure 7.1, have been signed in Podgorica with 67 agricultural producers. A total of €10.6 million will be invested in projects aimed at developing rural tourism, with around €6.8 million reimbursed to producers.

The majority of projects will be implemented in the municipalities of Nikšić, Žabljak, and Mojkovac. Most investments are focused on constructing and equipping rural tourism facilities, including installing photovoltaic panels. Implementing such projects is expected to contribute to meeting EU standards, increasing employment in northern Montenegro, and enhancing agricultural production's value.

According to the Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro, Johann Sattler, the signing of these contracts for the first €5 million of EU grants, out of a total of €63 million allocated through the IPARD III programme, clearly demonstrates what the European Union stands for and how it improves quality of life.

"This investment will help small businesses, farmers, and families turn their dreams into reality and earn a decent living by working on their land in the beautiful rural areas of Montenegro," stated Sattler.

Copyright: Saša Matić, Vlada Crne Gore

The EU Ambassador also highlighted that signing the first contracts under the IPARD III programme is just the beginning. "We look forward to continued EU support for numerous future initiatives that will keep transforming rural areas across Montenegro into more active and economically productive communities."

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management Vladimir Joković recalled that this is one of the most attractive measures of the IPARD programme, which has attracted significant public interest. The total eligible costs range from €10,000 to €200,000. Potential beneficiaries could apply for the construction, reconstruction, and equipping of complementary hospitality facilities providing accommodation services, food and beverage preparation facilities, and improvements to tourism infrastructure.

"As part of the public call under the IPARD III programme, 165 applications for support were submitted. The total value of the requested investments is approximately €26.5 million (excluding VAT), with a potential support amount exceeding €17 million. I would particularly like to congratulate these hardworking individuals who applied, and I am very pleased to see so many of them here today. I believe these 67 investments in rural tourism will significantly enhance the tourism offer in Montenegro’s rural areas, and there will be more, as some applicants are still finalising their documentation," Minister Joković emphasised.

Copyright: Saša Matić, Vlada Crne Gore

Marko Radonjić, Director-General of the Directorate for Payments and Head of the IPARD Agency, explained: "Following the completion of project evaluations, which included both administrative and field inspections, we expect the continuation of contract signings in March for successfully assessed projects under this public call for sub-measure 7.1 of the IPARD III programme."

"We proudly highlight that between 2015 and 2024, through the IPARD programme, we implemented 553 projects worth over €40 million. In the past year alone, 139 projects were carried out, amounting to €8.5 million—more than in the previous four years combined. This demonstrates the new management's commitment to prioritising support for IPARD projects. We are fully prepared for this call as well. This year’s IPARD programme for agricultural development includes a fixed interest rate of 4% and repayment terms of up to 12 years, with a grace period of up to 4 years, depending on the complexity of the funded project," stated Đuro Kažić, Director of the Credit Sector at the Development Bank.

Minister Joković expressed gratitude to EU partners, the Ministry of Finance, and the Development Bank for their proactive role in implementing these investments and congratulated all applicants, affirming that such investments are fundamental for the development of Montenegro's rural areas.