Key Takeaways

• The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF 2026) opens for applications on 17 March, offering £50 million in funding.
• Funding is divided into three categories: £20 million for farm productivity, £20 million for animal health and welfare, and £10 million for slurry management.
• Expect changes in eligibility and a simplified application process from 2027 onwards; a webinar will be held on 12 March for prospective applicants.

Funding Availability and Changes

The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF 2026) will open for applications on 17 March with £50 million available for farmers, growers, foresters, and their contractors. The funding is categorized into three focus areas: £20 million for farm productivity, £20 million for animal health and welfare, and £10 million for slurry management. A total of 290 items are eligible for grants ranging from £1,000 to £25,000 per theme, with the possibility of a combined maximum grant of £75,000 for items under different themes.

Significant updates for this funding round include the removal of specific items and the vet advice uplift. Additionally, applications must match contact details in the Rural Payments service, as the option for a separate correspondence address has been eliminated. This round will be the final standalone version of FETF as plans emerge to consolidate grant schemes in 2027 to improve the application process.

Farm Productivity Enhancements

The farm productivity grants aim to boost efficiency and profitability. This round includes 70 new items, such as autonomous UV-C light treatments and innovative weed wipers that reduce chemical usage. Other items include rainwater harvesting tanks and camera-guided inter-row sprayers which also aim to lower operational costs.

Applications for productivity items will be scored based on their effectiveness in enhancing productivity, delivering environmental benefits, and their usage across the industry.

Animal Health and Welfare Improvements

Grants are available for farmers maintaining livestock such as pigs, sheep, cattle, and poultry. The program supports investments in equipment to enhance animal welfare and productivity. Eligible items include ventilation systems, biosecurity equipment, and other measures that promote livestock health, with input provided by farmers, veterinarians, and industry specialists.

Slurry Management Techniques

The slurry management grant focuses on better practices for collection, storage, testing, and application. With 17 available items, including robotic collectors and low-emission spreading equipment, the goal is to improve soil health and water quality while reducing fertilizer needs.

Preparation and Additional Resources

The guidance is now accessible, detailing eligibility criteria, application steps, and assessment processes. Individuals planning to apply should verify that their Rural Payments service contact details are updated. A webinar is scheduled for 12 March to guide prospective applicants through the funding process and application tips, with a recording to be shared afterwards. Notifications for application openings can be received by subscribing to the Farming Blog.

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