High demand – but significant differences between counties

So far this year, we have awarded NOK 502 million across 377 applications. This is around NOK 200 million more than at the same time last year and almost half of this year's funding allocation.

On average, each farmer has received around NOK 1.3 million in grants. Meanwhile, those whose applications have not yet been processed have applied for an average of NOK 2.6 million. This figure is currently somewhat uncertain, as there is often a difference between the amount applied for and the funding we can provide.

As of 5 March 2026, we have 554 grant applications that are still being processed. Together, these applications amount to NOK 1.45 billion. This year's IBU funding allocation is NOK 1.153 billion, and in several counties, the grants already approved and applied for exceed the funds allocated to the county.

'We are seeing strong and growing appetite for investment in several counties. This is very positive for future food and agricultural production. At the same time, the high level of interest means that, unfortunately, we cannot approve every good project this year,' says Silje Lesjø, our Head of Agriculture.

Most applications come from dairy cattle farms, where many investments are linked to the requirement to switch to loose housing by 2034. At the same time, we are seeing an increase in applications from pig producers, particularly in Nordland and Troms.

In some counties, demand for IBU funding has remained high over time. In Rogaland, several applications from 2025 had to be deferred until 2026 after the funding allocation was fully committed. Innlandet is also reporting very high demand this year, and the county’s funding allocation may be used up earlier than before.

Read more about how we can support the agricultural sector here.