Two farms in the Vologda Region of Russia have been awarded federal support through the Ministry of Agriculture’s Agrotourism grant program.
A total of 130 entrepreneurs from 47 regions applied for funding, with the selected projects scheduled for implementation between 2026 and 2028.
The winners from Vologda include the deer eco-farm on Markush and the peasant farm Vologda Dawns. Governor Georgy Filimonov acknowledged the recognition as a step forward for the region’s rural tourism sector.
“We are proud of our entrepreneurs who develop tourism in rural areas, create new jobs and make the Vologda region recognizable, cozy and attractive,” he told КРАСНЫЙ СЕВЕР.
The deer eco-farm on Markush, which raises red deer and trout, intends to use its grant to expand visitor services. Plans include the construction of four guest houses and the development of infrastructure for outdoor recreation such as fishing, boating, excursions, and camping.
The project is expected to attract up to 1,000 visitors annually while also supporting the expansion of its reindeer population.
The Vologda Dawns farm will direct its funds toward building two modular guest houses equipped with a bathhouse, along with a dedicated space for culinary workshops.
As part of its tourism strategy, the farm will launch an interactive program called “Journey to the World of Premium Beef,” which will include tours and educational experiences centered on livestock and food production.
This is not the first success story for the region under the federal initiative. A previous recipient, Lipin Bor farm, has since developed into a larger agro-tourism complex featuring its own cheese factory and expanded facilities.
These ongoing projects reflect how the grant program is contributing to rural economic development while encouraging diversification through tourism.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality industry, the Vologda projects illustrate how targeted grant programs can accelerate tourism growth by combining agricultural production with visitor experiences.
The expansion of facilities such as guest houses, workshops, and guided farm activities underscores the growing market demand for immersive rural tourism. Similar initiatives may hold lessons for business owners seeking to integrate farming, culinary experiences, or outdoor recreation into hospitality offerings.