SFI26 update: Window 1 now closed
Window 1 of the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026 (SFI26) has now closed. We expect Window 2 to open from 22 September. This post provides an overview of figures and insights from Window 1.
Tackling drought: aquifer recharging to smart irrigation trials
Through the Farming Innovation Programme and its ADOPT Fund, we’re backing farmer-led ideas that strengthen access to water and help businesses adapt to increasingly hot and dry weather. In this post, we share 3 farmer-led projects already underway.
New drought support for farmers
Posted by:
The Team, Posted on:
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Categories:
Drought support, environmental land management schemes, Grants
Farmers affected by extreme dry weather can now benefit from temporary flexibilities in ELM agreements, £50 million increase in SFI funding, and a new round of the Water Management Grant, set to open in Autumn.
Managing farms and land during prolonged dry weather and drought
Almost three-quarters of land in England is now in drought after experiencing record-low rainfall and unusually high temperatures. As the dry weather looks set to persist, we've gathered information and resources to help farmers and growers.
Apply now for automation and robotics funding
Innovators in farming can now apply for a share of up to £20 million through Round 2 of the Farming Futures Automation and Robotics competition, part of the Farming Innovation Programme.
Capital Grants 2026 now open
This is a short post to let you know that the 2026 Capital Grants offer is now open for applications.
Watch the Capital Grants 2026 webinar
To help you prepare to apply for Capital Grants 2026, we hosted a webinar on Thursday 30 July for you to find out more.
Deadline extended for pig sector survey
The pig survey deadline has been extended to 31 July 2026 to give more people the opportunity to participate.
Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier: express your interest
From today, you can express your interest in a Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) agreement for agroforestry or woodland improvement. You can also express your interest in single-focus agreements for scheduled monument management or species-rich grassland.
New date for Capital Grants 2026 webinar
A new time and date have been set for the upcoming Capital Grants 2026 webinar. Join us on Thursday 30 July at 11am.
Related content and links
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Each month, we bring together the latest policy updates, funding opportunities, consultations, research and statistics, helping you stay informed about the issues that matter to you.
Groceries Code Adjudicator Annual Conference
The Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) annual conference takes place on Tuesday 29 September.
The event will bring together suppliers, retailers and industry representatives. It will reflect on the GCA’s work to ensure fair treatment of suppliers and the support available to them, including how they can raise issues in confidence.
Preparing your business for the UK-EU SPS agreement
Read the new guidance to understand what the changes could mean for your business and how to prepare.
Agricultural property relief
From 6 April 2026, qualifying agricultural and business assets will continue to receive full inheritance tax relief up to a combined value of £2.5 million. Lower relief rates will apply to assets above this amount. Learn more
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29 August Wensleydale Show on Richmond Rd, Leyburn.
31 August Aylsham Show at Blickling Park, Blickling Estate, Norwich.
Get advice
The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.
Join a webinar
Livestock disease guidance
Nutrient Management Planning Tool
Are you a net zero supplier?
Innovate UK Business Connect invites you to join its new directory and connect with public sector buyers.