Helping new entrants build a resilient business

Our New Entrant Scheme is made up of New Entrant Grants and Starter Farms, offering those coming into farming the opportunity to get their feet on the ladder.

Our New Entrant Grants support new entrants into farming, whether you're renting land, securing a new tenancy, or starting a fresh farming venture.

We look to support innovative individuals aged 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 to your farming business: .

• Healthy livestock management

• Sustainable soil care

• Preventing future issues that could affect long-term viability

• Exceptional project or innovative ideas

Who can apply?

If you are aged 18 to 40 and have started farming within the past five years, or you are about to start farming you could be eligible.

What does the scheme cover?

Grants are available towards items that will improve the health of your farm, or your livestock and some examples are :

·         Soil and fodder analysis – to help ensure your soil and feed are performing at their best

·         Livestock health planning & vet attestation – to promote healthy livestock and proactive care

·          Animal health products – such as wormers and vaccinations to prevent illness

·         Shearing services – essential for animal welfare and productivity

·         Livestock monitoring cameras – especially useful in lambing or calving sheds to help reduce mortalities

 Mobile fencing equipment – particularly helpful if you've moved into a new tenancy and need temporary solutions

·         Hoof trimming equipment – to prevent lameness and maintain herd health

·         Disinfection mats and sprays – to help reduce the risk of disease entering your farm

• Other items may be considered

  Capital items such as machinery, livestock trailers and livestock are not eligible for this scheme

Grants are capped at £3,000 and this is the maximum that can be awarded.  If an eligible item costing more than £3,000 is requested, the applicant will have to evidence where the balance is coming from

• Grants will be paid to approved applications upon production of an invoice for the requested item.

Please note that we cannot fund items which are currently eligible for funding elsewhere.