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The Norwegian agricultural authorities agreed in May 2026 to introduce a grant for small-scale, diversified horticultural producers, also called market gardens. Market gardeners in Norway produce on average on 0,2–0,5 hectares, and sell locally at markets, through consumer subscription, directly to restaurants etc. The grant will be provided to producers with 0,1–1 hectares, and the aim is to reduce risk for small-scale vegetable producers and to promote direct sales of vegetables and berries. 

The grant is NOK 10,000 (approx. 900 Euro) per 0,1 hectare for the first 0,1–0,5 hectares, with a maximum grant of NOK 50,000. The scheme is designed for producers cultivating at least 15 different crops and selling directly to consumers, with a minimum turnover requirement of NOK 50,000. The grant scheme for market gardeners is expected to be open for applications from 2027. The Norwegian Agriculture Agency will administer the scheme. 

More information about the scheme here. 

As horticulture in Norway became more intensive and dominated by large-scale producers in a few regions on the country, small-scale, diversified vegetable production almost disappeared. Around ten years ago, the market garden movement started, sparking a reversal of the trend. Inspired by market gardeners in Europe and Canada, a growing number of Norwegian farmers and entrepreneurs started growing a large variety of different vegetables on small plots of land, selling locally, often directly to consumers, and always outside the main supermarket chains. Market gardeners generally use sustainable, usually organic production methods such as green manure, cover crops, mulching and local resources for fertilisation. Demand for fresh, local vegetables from consumers is generally high, and market gardeners are praised for their contribution to healthier and more sustainable, plant-based diets. However, as the area they use for cultivation is very low, market gardeners receive very little support from agricultural grant schemes, which is usually either linked to area size or, in the case of livestock producers, the number of animals. Norwegian market gardeners and their supporters have for several years requested a grant scheme tailor made for their needs and are pleased that such a scheme will be introduced from 2027. 

The grant is in line with the national ambition to increase Norwegian fruit and vegetable production, and the purpose of the grant schemes is to support an active and sustainable agricultural sector in line with the objectives set by the Norwegian Parliament.