Today, Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, unveiled exciting new opportunities for farmers, growers, and foresters in England. Starting in 2025, a trio of grant programs will open, each designed to bolster productivity, innovation, and sustainability in the agricultural sector. These initiatives, collectively worth millions, aim to drive the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices, ultimately enhancing food security and environmental stewardship.
The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) is set to launch its fourth round this spring, offering grants ranging from £1,000 to £25,000. With a total of £46.7 million up for grabs, this fund will support the purchase of new equipment, technology, and small infrastructure projects. The grants are divided into two categories: £30 million for productivity and slurry management, and £16.7 million for animal health and welfare. Over the past three rounds, FETF has already distributed over £107 million, demonstrating its significant impact on the sector.
The Farming Innovation Programme (FIP) is another key initiative, with up to £42.6 million available across three competitions. The first competition, aligned with the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023, will allocate up to £12.5 million to research projects focused on practical benefits like disease resistance and reduced nutrient or pesticide use. The second competition, centered on Net Zero farming, will also offer up to £12.5 million for technologies and practices that support the sector’s transition to Net Zero. The third competition, industry-led, will provide up to £17.6 million for projects ranging from early-stage feasibility to those nearing commercialization. FIP has already invested £51.8 million, with an additional £98 million committed to ongoing projects. Notable trials include semi-transparent solar panels in glasshouses and polytunnels, and research into daffodil extract in cattle feed to reduce methane emissions.
Lastly, the Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies Fund (ADOPT) will open for applications in spring 2025. This fund, managed by a bespoke Support Hub led by RSK ADAS, will provide grants of between £50,000 and £100,000 for collaborative, farmer-led innovation projects. These projects will focus on boosting farm productivity, food security, and nature’s recovery. ADOPT, along with FIP, will make up to £63 million available starting in the 2025/26 financial year.
These grant programs represent a significant investment in the future of English agriculture. By encouraging the adoption of new technologies and practices, they aim to enhance productivity, promote sustainability, and support the sector’s transition to Net Zero. Farmers, growers, foresters, and other industry stakeholders are encouraged to explore these opportunities and stay tuned for further updates on application processes and guidance.
