The first part of the Farming Investment Fund – the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) – is open for applications until 7 January 2022.
The FETF is similar in scope to the Countryside Productivity Small Grant Scheme, but there have been some updates. Notable changes include:
- The addition of new items
- A reduction in the minimum grant value to £2,000 (maximum in one round is £25,000)
- It is open to contractors
- There is more leniency around the ‘all or nothing clause’ if you are unable to get an item
Items included this time around include dribble bar and trailing shoe systems; automatic calf feeders; cattle handling systems; and heat recovery units.
Applications must be made by 7 January 2022, and items must be installed and paid for prior to the claim deadline on 30 September 2022.