In a few weeks’ time, applications will be open for round 2 of the Improving Farm Productivity grant which is part of the Farming Investment Fund. To help you prepare, Defra have published guidance on GOV.UK.
Robotic and automatic machinery and the use of solar equipment
The Improving Farm Productivity grant is open to horticultural and arable businesses and will pay for capital items to improve farm and horticulture productivity through:
- the use of robotic and automated equipment and systems to aid crop and livestock production
- the installation of solar equipment to increase energy resilience and the take-up of renewable energy generation on farm
Contractors from those sectors are eligible to apply for grants towards the purchase of robotic and automated equipment, but not solar equipment.
For robotic and automated equipment, we are reducing the minimum grant available to £25,000 and the maximum grant available remains at £500,000. The grant will cover up to 40% of the cost of eligible items.
For solar equipment, the minimum grant available is £15,000, with the maximum grant being £100,000. The grant will cover up to 25% of the cost of eligible items.
You can apply for both automated and robotic equipment and solar equipment, however your maximum grant amount cannot exceed £500,000 in total for both applications together.
Applying for a grant
The first step to apply will be an online checker, which is expected to open in January and run until March. This will assess your eligibility and likelihood of success and will, in turn, determine whether you are invited to submit a full application.
Find out more at: Improving Farm Productivity grants: get ready for Round 2 – Farming (blog.gov.uk)
Improving Farm Productivity grant Round 2: applicant guidance – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
