The long awaited Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) is now open for applications.

As expected the scheme is very similar to the former Countryside Productivity Small Grant Scheme and offers 40% grant funding for investment into technology and equipment to improve sustainable agricultural, horticultural and forestry productivity.

Whilst predominantly the same, there are a few key differences;

  • Farmers, horticulturalists, forestry owners and contractors are now eligible to apply for the grant
  • Maximum grant increased to £25,000
  • A reduced minimum grant of £2,000

In addition to this, the list of eligible items has been reviewed and increased from 85 to 120 meaning there is something for everyone. A selection of eligible items are;

  • Direct Drill (3m/6m) – £12,054/£25,000
  • Mobile Cattle Handling Systems – £4,456
  • Fixed Cattle Handling Systems – £3,866
  • Mobile Sheep Handling Systems – £3,100
  • Fixed Sheep Handling Systems – £1,600
  • Robotic Silage Pushers – £5,479
  • Cameras for Livestock monitoring – £132
  • Cow Brushes – £514
  • Grassland Sward Lifter – £2,804
  • Crop Storage Sensors – £3,980
  • Cover Crop Rollers (3m/6m) – £1,952/£3,313

As this is a new grant, it is open to everyone even if you maximised your claim on the Countryside Productivity Small Grant Scheme.

Applications need to be submitted by midday on the 7th January 2022, with grants claimed by 30th September 2022.

If you would like to discuss the grant further or would like assistance with an application, please do not hesitate to contact Ellen Cottrell or Josh Balsdon on 01684 853400 who will be happy to discuss the grant further.