Good news for farmers across Norfolk: the government has announced that Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) grants will be back this spring. The FETF is a great opportunity to invest in new kit to improve productivity, manage slurry better, or boost animal health and welfare.
On 25 February, Environment Secretary Steve Reed confirmed that several funding streams are opening this year, including a fresh round of FETF. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading a bit of kit or trying out something new, this fund could cover up to 60% of the investment.
What is the FETF?
The FETF provides grants towards a wide list of equipment and tech that help make farm businesses more efficient, sustainable and resilient. It’s aimed at farmers, growers, foresters and contractors and has handed out over £107 million over the past three rounds.
This year’s round will offer:
- £30 million for productivity and slurry-related items
- £16.7 million for animal health and welfare equipment
- Grants between £1,000 and £25,000
The full list of eligible items hasn’t been published yet, but it’s expected to be very similar to the 2024 fund. That included things like shallow slurry injectors, GPS systems, calving detectors, direct drills, livestock handling equipment and more. So, it’s worth taking a look at last year’s list if you want to get an idea of what might be available this time round.
When Can You Apply?
Applications aren’t open just yet, but they’re due this spring. As soon as the full guidance and item list go live on GOV.UK, we’ll share the details.
How We Can Help
Here at Norfolk FWAG, we’ll be on hand to help you:
- Make sense of the guidance
- Work out whether the items you’re looking at are covered
- Put together a solid application
We know it can feel a bit daunting, especially if you haven’t applied before – so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you want guidance.
If you are an enhanced member of Norfolk FWAG, why not use your half-day visit from an advisor to put together an application?
This is a brilliant chance to access funding for things you might already be thinking about investing in and with costs being what they are, every bit of help counts. It’s well worth having a think now about what would make a difference to your business, so you’re ready to apply once the window opens.
