Support for Agrotourism in Portugal: Financing Opportunities for Rural Tourism Projects
- Ana Carolina Santos
- Nov 20
- 4 min read
Agrotourism represents one of the most sustainable ways to diversify the Portuguese rural economy, combining the preservation of agricultural heritage with tourism development. Currently, there are several specific financing lines that make agrotourism projects more viable and accessible.
What are the Supports for Agrotourism?
Supports for agrotourism are financial incentives aimed at promoting the development of tourism activities in rural areas, integrated into active agricultural holdings. These programs aim to dinamize rural areas, create jobs, and enhance Portuguese natural and cultural heritage.
Agrotourism should always be integrated within a functioning agricultural holding where guests can participate in daily agricultural activities.
Main Available Financing Programs
Portugal 2030 - "Grow with Tourism" Program
This program represents one of the most interesting opportunities for agrotourism projects:
Financing Conditions:
Base rate: 60% of eligible expenses as non-refundable funding
Additional bonus: +20% for low-density territories
Maximum limit: up to €400,000 per project
Eligible expenses:
Construction and adaptation of infrastructures
Acquisition of agricultural and tourism equipment
Information systems and digital technologies
Quality and sustainability certifications
Marketing and commercialization actions
Tourism Offer Qualification Support Line
Especially suitable for requalifying and modernizing existing units:
Features:
Financing up to 80% of total investment
Maximum limit of €3 million
Structure: 75% interest-free + 25% with bank interest for SMEs
Focus on environmental and social sustainability measures
Rural Development Program (PDR 2030)
Continuation of sector-specific supports for agriculture and rural areas:
Financing priorities:
Diversification of activities on agricultural holdings
Knowledge transfer and innovation
Promotion of social inclusion in rural areas
Sustainable management of natural resources
Requirements and Conditions for Access
Basic Conditions for Application:
Company Requirements:
Regularized tax and contribution status
Appropriate licensing for tourism activity
Registration in the RNET (National Registry of Tourist Enterprises)
Proof of active agricultural activity
Project Requirements:
Location in eligible rural area
Use of buildings with heritage value or respecting traditional architecture
Integration within a functioning agricultural holding
Contribution to local development
Priority Criteria:
Projects are more likely to be approved when they present:
Innovation in offered activities
Environmental sustainability
Creation of local employment
Enhancement of traditional products
Promotion of regional gastronomy
Eligible Investments in Agrotourism Projects
Infrastructure and Construction:
Renovation of rural homes for accommodation
Adaptation of agricultural buildings for tourism use
Construction of support facilities (restaurants, activities)
Improvements in energy efficiency
Equipment and Technology:
Traditional furniture and decoration
Equipment for demonstrative agricultural activities
Renewable energy systems
Digital management and booking platforms
Complementary Activities:
Development of interpretive trails
Creation of spaces for agricultural workshops
Implementation of educational programs
Structures for local product sales
Application Process
Application Preparation:
Feasibility study:
Local market study
Competition assessment
Target audience definition
Detailed business plan
Required documentation:
Approved architectural project
Urban planning licenses
Proof of ownership or lease
Detailed investment budgets
Submission:
Online form completion on official platform
Uploading all documentation
Monitoring the analysis process
Deadlines and Schedule:
Applications are usually open continuously until funds are exhausted, but some programs have specific opening periods.
Practical Advice for Success
Strategic Planning:
Before applying:
Obtain multiple quotes for investments over €5,000
Ensure 20-40% equity
Validate all necessary licenses
Set realistic targets for turnover and employment
During the Project:
Keep detailed expense records
Document compliance with promised indicators
Implement sustainability measures from the start
Maximizing Support:
Multiple Application Strategy:
Divide the project into complementary components
Apply to different programs for different components
Avoid overlapping expenses between applications
Available Bonuses:
Projects in low-density territories (+20%)
Creation of qualified employment (+10%)
Implementation of innovative solutions (+15%)
Post-Approval Obligations
Long-term Commitments:
Maintenance Period:
Maintain the investment for 3-5 years
Preserve the created jobs
Meet turnover indicators
Submit annual progress reports
Penalties for Non-compliance:
Partial or full return of supports
Late payment interests on undue amounts
Exclusion from future support programs
Future Trends and Opportunities
Growing Sectors:
Ecotourism and Sustainability:
Integrated organic production
Renewable energies
Efficient water management
Circular economy
Authentic Experiences:
Traditional agriculture workshops
Participation in grape harvests and other crops
Gastronomy with local products
Rural handicrafts
Wellness Tourism:
Rural spas with natural products
Nature-based therapies
Mindfulness activities in the countryside
Digital detox
Emerging Markets:
Portuguese agrotourism has particular potential with:
Urban tourists seeking authenticity
Families with children
Senior tourists with available time
International premium segment
Specialized Technical Support
When to Seek Consultancy:
Recommended scenarios:
Projects over €100,000
Applications to multiple programs
First experience with European funds
High technical complexity
Available Services:
Eligibility analysis
Application preparation
Execution monitoring
Support in payment requests
To Reflect
Agrotourism represents a unique opportunity to enhance Portuguese rural heritage, creating sustainable economic value. Available financial supports make these projects more accessible but demand careful planning and long-term commitment. The key to success lies in creating authentic experiences that connect visitors with local agricultural traditions while always respecting the environment and rural communities. Now is the right time to invest, but it must be done with knowledge and strategy. If you are considering developing an agrotourism project, now is the ideal time to explore these financing opportunities. The future of rural tourism in Portugal depends on visionary entrepreneurs who know how to combine tradition and innovation.
