GUDP

The Green Development and Demonstration Program (GUDP – Grønt Udviklings- og Demonstrationsprogram) is a grant scheme dedicated to solving challenges within the Danish food and agriculture industry and is administered by The Danish Agricultural Agency – an agency under the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries of Denmark.

What is GUDP?

GUDP aims to address some of the key challenges facing the food industry. The challenges are to create greater sustainability and solve some of the climate and environmental problems facing society – while at the same time improving the economy so that the food sector can continue to create growth and secure jobs in Denmark.

Project ideas must contribute to solving the most important challenges for the Danish food, agricultural, fisheries, and aquaculture industries.

Who can apply?

The target group for the GUDP program is research institutions, producers, entrepreneurs, etc. within the food industry. This includes company-registered persons, companies, industry organizations, associations, self-governing institutions, and public research institutions, which are registered in the Central Business Register (CVR).

Approved Technological Service Institutes (GTS), industry organizations, associations, and self-governing institutions are considered private companies in the context of grants.

Can non-Danish projects apply?

The program targets Denmark-based companies, but the application can be written in Danish or English. However, there is a requirement for a short Danish project description in Form A.

What kind of projects are supported?

Projects dedicated to solving challenges within the food and agriculture industry and targeting sustainable use of resources, animal welfare, food safety, human health and nutrition, and food quality.

How much funding can a project apply for?

The size of the grant depends on the project form:

• Development and demonstration projects with or without research activities: Total grant DKK 0.25-15 million (project duration of up to 4 years)
• Network projects: Grants can cover up to 50 percent. of the eligible costs. Grants can be applied for the establishment of networks with a duration of 1-2 years and with a total grant of DKK 0.25-2 million

What is required in the application and how can I apply?

Applications are sent to gudp@lbst.dk before the deadline. The application forms consist of seven forms:

• A: Main application form
• B: Budget and Gantt chart
• C: Participant form
• D: Extra business plan (if relevant)
• E: Description of scientific research within a project
• F: Collaboration agreements for use in networking projects
• G: Business Model Canvas (optional)

What are the evaluation criteria?

Projects are evaluated according to 4 environmental sustainability parameters and two economic sustainability parameters:

• Limiting the environmental impact of nutrients (N and P), pesticides, and greenhouse gases
• Sustainable use of resources in food production
• Improving food safety, food quality, human health, and nutrition
• Improved production methods
• The project will generate financial returns for its participants
• The project has long-term economic potential within its sector

How does the whole evaluation process work?

• Once the application has been received, the GUDP Secretariat will send a receipt within a few days, confirming to have received the application.
• If the board decides to fund a project, the applicant will receive a letter of commitment. The letter contains information about the size of the grant as well as conditions for the commitment.
• During the project period, the project manager is obliged to notify the GUDP secretariat of the project and budget changes. It is particularly important here to be aware that the changes must be approved by the Secretariat before they can enter into force.
• In addition to requesting changes, the project manager is also required to submit an annual status report where the project’s progress can be assessed. This annual report is used to assess the project’s progress, eg whether the project’s milestones are reached. The progress of the project is presented to GUDP’s board. Upon completion of the project, the project manager is also required to submit a final report. The final report is used i.a. to assess whether the effects of the project are realized. The templates for the status and final reports can be found under the tab “Schedules and instructions”.
• The secretariat thus follows the project to the door with a focus on project progress, finances, and communication. The goal is to ensure that the projects are realized as applied so that both the environment and the food industry benefit from the project’s results.