A grower led Producer Organisation supporting Northern Ireland’s horticulture sector
NI Horticulture PO is a Producer Organisation established in 2025 to strengthen the position of Northern Ireland’s horticulture growers. We are the first Producer Organisation in Northern Ireland to represent both the fruit and vegetable sectors. Created and led by growers, we work collectively to improve production efficiency, market coordination, innovation and long term sustainability.
As the first Producer Organisation in Northern Ireland to represent both fruit and vegetable growers, that range spans everything from mushrooms and soft fruit to field vegetables and apples. Our members produce a diverse mix of crops — from mushrooms and apples to soft fruit, leafy greens and field vegetables — supplying markets across Northern Ireland, the UK and Ireland.
Stronger Together
NIHPO is built on collaboration. By working as a group, we are able to:
• plan and coordinate production more effectively
• share knowledge, skills and expertise
• meet market specifications with greater consistency
• invest in modern technologies and infrastructure
• support environmental improvements across farms
• strengthen growers’ position in an increasingly competitive sector
As challenges facing the horticulture industry intensify — rising costs, labour pressures, climate impacts and demanding quality standards — a unified structure provides stability and opportunity.
What We Do
NIHPO supports growers by:
• providing technical, production and quality assurance support
• coordinating marketing and supply chain activity
• strengthening links with buyers, packers and processors
• supporting compliance with assurance schemes and retailer requirements
• enabling investment through the Fruit and Vegetable Aid Scheme (F&VAS)
• promoting sustainable and efficient production practices
• offering training, guidance and advisory services
• helping growers adapt to change and plan for the future
Investing Through the Fruit and Vegetable Support (F&VAS) Scheme
The DAERA-supported Fruit and Vegetable Support (F&VAS) Scheme is a key investment tool for Northern Ireland's fruit and vegetable sector. Under the scheme, Producer Organisations like NIHPO design and manage Operational Programmes in partnership with DAERA, delivering targeted support that helps growers strengthen and future-proof their businesses.
The scheme provides 50% grant support on eligible investment, supporting improvements in:
- production capacity and operational efficiency
- product quality and innovation
- research and development
- marketing, training and skills development
- environmental sustainability
Find out more about the Fruit and Vegetable Aid Scheme on the DAERA website
Grower Led and Grower Focused
NIHPO operates with a clear principle: one member, one vote. Decisions reflect the collective interest of growers, ensuring the Producer Organisation remains focused on strengthening farm businesses and supporting long term sector development.
Together, we are building a stronger horticulture industry for Northern Ireland.