IPARD Support Changing the Lives of Young Farmers: The Story of Faruk Tursumović from Pljevlja

Faruk Tursumović from Pljevlja is a true example of how young farmers can achieve success with the support of the IPARD Programme, a European initiative aimed at supporting the modernisation and development of agriculture in Montenegro. This young agricultural engineer, although raised in the city centre, decided to build his future around farming and rural life, transforming his vision into a successful agricultural holding.

With the support of IPARD II grant funding amounting to EUR 21,323, Faruk purchased modern agricultural machinery with a total value of EUR 30,462, enabling him to independently complete the entire production cycle—from sowing to harvesting. He covered the remaining part of the investment through his own resources and additional private funding. This support allowed him to increase yields, optimise production processes, and achieve a more stable livelihood on his family farm.

Through the IPARD III Programme, Faruk applied under the First Public Call within Measure 1, with a total investment value of EUR 38,230. The potential grant support amounts to EUR 26,761. The investment is intended for the purchase of additional machinery, which will significantly improve the efficiency and capacity of his agricultural holding.

"The IPARD Programme is a key opportunity for young farmers. Without this type of support, it is very difficult to invest in modern machinery and develop a farm in a sustainable way. For us, it means security and the ability to plan for the future," says Faruk.

The municipality of Pljevlja has enormous agricultural potential—fertile land, a favourable climate, and a long tradition of producing potatoes, cereals, and fruit make this region ideal for developing competitive agricultural holdings.

Faruk currently cultivates six hectares of potatoes, six hectares of cereals, and one hectare of fruit, with plans to build a storage facility and establish a packaging line in order to offer the market sorted and branded locally produced potatoes.

Faruk’s story demonstrates that IPARD funding is not only financial assistance, but also an opportunity for the development of rural areas, the modernisation of production, and the strengthening of local economies. His experience serves as inspiration for young people to remain in their communities, invest in agriculture, and produce domestic food in accordance with European standards.

"Working in the fields is not easy, but with the right support, knowledge, and perseverance, young people can build successful farms and strengthen agriculture in Montenegro," concludes Faruk.

A video about potato production can be viewed HERE.

A video about buckwheat production can be viewed HERE.