New Funding Opportunity: Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2026 Now Open

Farming and forestry businesses across England can now apply for a new round of funding through the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2026 (FETF).

Delivered by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, this fund is designed to support investment in equipment and technology that improves productivity, sustainability, and resilience across the agricultural and forestry sectors.

What Funding Is Available?

A total of £50 million has been allocated for this round, split across three key themes:

• Productivity improvements – £20 million
• Animal health and welfare – £20 million
• Slurry management – £10 million

Applicants can apply for grants between £1,000 and £25,000 per theme, with the potential to access up to £75,000 in total if applying across multiple categories.

What Can the Funding Be Used For?

The fund supports the purchase of eligible equipment and technology that helps businesses:

• Improve operational efficiency and productivity
• Enhance animal health and welfare standards
• Manage slurry more effectively and sustainably

This is a practical, capital-focused fund aimed at delivering tangible improvements on the ground.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Farming businesses
• Forestry businesses
• Horticultural producers
• Contractors and growers working within these sectors

To qualify, applicants must be based in England and involved in the production or processing of agricultural, horticultural, or forestry products.

Why This Matters for the VCSE Sector

While this fund is aimed primarily at commercial farming and forestry enterprises, it may also be relevant to:

• Community farms and social enterprises
• Environmental and land-based charities
• Organisations supporting rural livelihoods and sustainability

VCSE organisations working in partnership with land-based businesses may also benefit indirectly through improved infrastructure and resilience within local rural economies.

Key Dates

Application deadline: 28 April 2026 (12:00 midday)

This is expected to be the final standalone round of the FETF in its current format, with future funding set to be restructured from 2027.

How to Apply

Applications can be made via the official GOV.UK page for the fund.

Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2026 – GOV.UK (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs)

Final Thoughts

This is a significant opportunity for farming and forestry businesses to invest in equipment that drives efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. With a relatively short application window and strong demand expected, early preparation is key.

For VCSE organisations supporting rural communities, this fund represents an important piece of the wider funding landscape shaping the future of England’s countryside.