IPARD Success Story: From the First Investment to an IPARD Project Worth Over EUR 317,000

Continuous investment, a commitment to development, and the effective use of available support programmes have enabled a young Montenegrin farmer to gradually develop his agricultural holding—from his first investment in machinery to the implementation of a project worth more than EUR 317,000 through the IPARD III Programme.

At the age of 37, he has already completed several successful investment cycles that have significantly improved the production capacities of his farm. Radovan Roganović from Nikšić began his development journey through the IPARD Programme in 2021, when he invested in the modernisation of agricultural machinery under IPARD II, Measure 1.

The new machinery enabled more efficient work, reduced operating costs, and improved the use of available resources, representing an important step towards modernising production. Encouraged by the results achieved, he continued investing and, in 2023, implemented another project focused on purchasing equipment, further improving production processes and increasing productivity on his farm.

Support was also provided through national measures. Through the Young Farmers Support Programme under the 2025 Agricultural Budget, he received additional funding, which he invested in purchasing new machinery and tractor attachments, continuing the process of developing and modernising his production.

The culmination of his investment journey so far is the project he is currently implementing through the IPARD III Programme. This investment, worth more than EUR 317,000, represents the largest investment in his agricultural holding to date and a significant step forward towards increasing competitiveness and ensuring sustainable production.

Speaking about his experience, Roganović emphasises that none of his investments happened by chance or overnight.

"Behind every project there are months of planning, document preparation, and a great deal of work. As farmers, we spend most of our day on the farm, and it is not always easy to balance everyday responsibilities with administrative procedures. However, when you see the results that these investments bring, it becomes clear that every effort was worthwhile. IPARD has enabled me to achieve my development plans much faster than I would have been able to without this support," says Roganović.

He adds that previous investments created the foundation for the implementation of his current project, and that every new purchase and production improvement represents part of a long-term development strategy for his farm.

His experience today serves as an example to other producers that significant results can be achieved with proper preparation and a clear vision. For this reason, he has a special message for fellow farmers who are still considering applying for IPARD support.

"My advice to all farmers is not to be afraid to apply. The programme is demanding and requires serious preparation, but the benefits it brings far outweigh the effort invested. It is important to get informed on time, seek professional assistance, and not give up when facing challenges during the process. If there is a good idea and a desire for development, IPARD can be a strong foundation for achieving those goals. I am the best proof that perseverance and investment in development truly pay off."

He also expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, as well as to the professional services that provide support to beneficiaries during the preparation and implementation of projects.

From his first investment in machinery to a project worth more than EUR 317,000, the development path of this young farmer demonstrates how hard work, dedication, and the use of available support programmes can help achieve ambitious goals and build successful agricultural holdings.