New government grants for farming equipment, innovation and sustainability in 2025

The UK Government announced on 25 February 2025 a new wave of funding to support farmers in adopting cutting-edge equipment and technology in 2025. These grants, provided by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), aim to improve productivity, enhance slurry management, and boost animal health and welfare. With millions of pounds allocated, these schemes offer an excellent opportunity for farmers to modernise their operations while contributing to sustainable agriculture.

Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF)

The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) is designed to help farmers invest in modern equipment and tools to improve efficiency and sustainability. Key details include:

• Grants available between £1,000 and £25,000.
• A total of £30 million allocated for productivity and slurry management improvements.
• £16.7 million dedicated to enhancing animal health and welfare.
• Funding covers a range of eligible equipment, including precision farming tools, slurry separators, and livestock monitoring systems.
• The application process will be designed to be straightforward, with DEFRA providing clear guidance to help farmers easily access the funds.

Farming Innovation Programme (FIP)

The Farming Innovation Programme (FIP) focuses on developing and implementing new agricultural technologies to drive efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. This programme will fund projects that bring together farmers, researchers, and technology developers. Highlights include:

• Up to £12.5 million available for precision breeding technology.
• Up to £12.5 million allocated for Net Zero farming projects.
• £17.6 million dedicated to industry-led competitions to encourage innovation.
• Support for projects that focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving crop yields, and enhancing soil health.
• Funding available for pilot projects, feasibility studies, and large-scale trials to test and refine new approaches.

Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies Fund (ADOPT)

The Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies Fund (ADOPT) is designed to provide collaborative, farmer-led innovation grants. This scheme encourages farmers to test new methods and technology on their farms, with funding aimed at improving productivity, food security, and environmental recovery. Key points include:

• Grants ranging from £50,000 to £100,000.
• A bespoke Support Hub led by RSK ADAS, with backing from the UK Agri-Tech Centre and Soil Association.
• £63 million in funding available from the 2025/26 financial year.
• Applications open in spring 2025.

How to apply

DEFRA will be releasing further guidance on how to apply for these grants in the coming months. If you’re a farmer looking to modernise your operations, improve efficiency, and contribute to sustainability, these funding opportunities could provide the financial support you need.

As always, staying informed and seeking professional advice on grant applications and financial planning will help you to make the most of these opportunities. Keep an eye out for DEFRA’s announcements and be ready to take advantage of these funding options in 2025.

Need help?

If you’d like to discuss this in more detail, please get in touch with your usual Larking Gowen contact. You can find contact details in the Our People section of our website. Alternatively, call 0330 024 0888 or email enquiry@larking-gowen.co.uk.

Laurie Hill