New Entrant Scheme Update
In September last year we launched our new Entrant Scheme, in memory of former trustee Peter Jinman OBE, MRCVS, to encourage and enable the next generation of farmers to introduce fresh ideas and progressive thinking to UK agriculture.
Peter, who was also an eminent vet was passionate about encouraging young people to succeed with positive animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. In celebration of that ethos, the New Entrant Scheme was set up to support those coming into farming, giving them the opportunity to get their foot on the ladder, through Addington Funds ‘New Entrant Small Grants’ or ‘Starter Farms’.
Our Small Grant Scheme supports innovative new entrants into farming, whether they are renting land, securing a new tenancy, or starting a fresh farming venture. Since the scheme started we have successfully helped over 30 new entrants with grants to fund, or part fund, new equipment that help improve the health of their farms and livestock.
We have funded a wide range of practical investments designed to make a positive impact on business sustainability and efficiency, including mobile livestock handling equipment, mobile fencing, poultry incubators, disinfectant mats, soil analysis and livestock cameras.
Patrick and Alice Jopling
Recently we were contacted by Patrick and Alice Jopling who applied for a grant to go towards mobile sheep handling equipment.
After filling out the online application and being given the green light by our Grants Panel, they were awarded the maximum grant of £3,000 for the equipment they needed.
Patrick and Alice Jopling
“We would like to say a huge thank you for the new entrant grant we received from the Addington Fund.
We both work full time outside of our farming enterprise and have a young family. The Addington Fund’s New Entrant Scheme has allowed us to invest in our sheep handling facilities. Tasks which would have once taken over a whole weekend, we can complete in an evening, freeing up valuable family time.
“We could not have laid out the capital at this stage in our business’ growth without the support of the Addington Fund. We will be forever grateful for this opportunity and will think of the charity with every argument saved and every hour recovered.”
Patrick and Alice Jopling’s mobile sheep handling equipment which was funded by Addington Fund
To see Patrick and Alice using their sheep handling equipment follow them on Instagram @lambjops
Kian Hocking
Kian Hocking, a first generation farmer from West Cornwall is another new entrant who has been awarded the maximum grant of £3,000, which he was able to put towards temporary electric fencing.
Kian Hocking at the Cornwall Farm Business Awards
“The Grant really allowed us to progress our business, probably 5 years ahead equipment wise of what we would have been able to afford to do on our own. Obviously, financially it moved us forward a lot better than we ever imagined.
I’d definitely recommend getting in touch with Addington. The application process for us was really simple, everyone was really helpful and got it moving really fast. We were really impressed at how simple the process was.”
To see Kian using his temporary electric fencing follow him on Instagram @kian.hocking
Kian Hocking’s temporary electric fencing
Addington Fund looks to support innovative individuals between 18-40 who are entering the agricultural industry in England and Wales for the first time, or who have been farming on their own for no more than five years with initiatives that deliver real benefits.
Healthy livestock management
Sustainable soil care
Preventing future issues that could affect long-term viability
Exceptional projects or innovative ideas
For more information on our New Entrant Grant Scheme and to find out how to apply click here or contact enquiries@addingtonfund.org.uk
Applications will be reviewed by a panel and will be assessed on their innovation, viability and alignment with the New Entrant Scheme focus.