The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) 2026 provides capital grants to support investment in farm equipment that improves productivity, slurry management and animal health and welfare.
With funding covering approximately 50% of the cost of eligible equipment, the scheme offers farm businesses an opportunity to invest in efficiency and sustainability improvements.
Newton Insight
The 2026 round represents the final opportunity to apply for FETF as a standalone scheme before DEFRA moves towards a consolidated grant funding structure from 2027.
For many farm businesses, this may present a timely opportunity to invest in equipment that improves productivity, environmental performance and animal welfare while benefiting from grant support covering around half of the purchase cost.
Funding Available
A total of £50 million will be available through the FETF 2026 scheme, divided across three key themes:
- £20 million for farm productivity
- £10 million for slurry management
- £20 million for animal health and welfare
Applicants can apply for funding between £1,000 and £25,000 per theme, with a combined maximum of £75,000 where businesses apply across multiple themes.
Eligible Items
More than 290 items of equipment are eligible for funding under FETF 2026:
- 17 items of slurry management equipment
- 70 items of equipment aimed at improving productivity
- 203 items designed to promote animal health and welfare
If successful and a Grant Funding Agreement is accepted, items must be paid for in full before the claim is submitted.
All grant-funded purchases must be made through a recognised supplier or manufacturer.
The deadline for purchasing equipment and submitting a final claim is midday on 20 January 2027.
Applying
The FETF 2026 scheme has a single application window, opening on 17 March 2026 and closing at midday on 28 April 2026 for all three grant themes.
Applications must be submitted through the RPA’s Farming Investment Fund application service.
Applicants are advised to check the item specifications carefully and no purchases can be made before a grant offer is received.
As this is a competitive scheme, applications will be scored by the RPA.
Key Changes in the 2026 Round
DEFRA has announced several changes to the scheme for 2026:
- The eligibility equipment lists have been revised, with some items removed and new items introduced
- The previous scoring uplifts for applications supported by veterinary advice or submitted by new entrants have been withdrawn
- Applicant contact information must now match the details held within the RPA, as separate correspondence addresses are no longer permitted
How Newton Can Help
Our team at Newton can support farm businesses throughout the FETF process, including:
- Identifying equipment that meets the scheme requirements
- Assessing how funding could support wider farm investment plans
- Preparing and submitting applications
- Supporting the claims process once equipment has been purchased
If you are considering an application under FETF 2026, please contact our team to discuss how we can help.
Download the article here: The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund