News.

Farmers are being encouraged to start preparing now for a new round of Capital Grants from DEFRA, expected to open in July 2026.

The upcoming scheme is set to support a range of on-farm improvements, including fencing and boundary work, as well as measures to reduce pollution, improve water management and limit contamination. Full details of the grant offer are expected to be confirmed in May.

In the meantime, preliminary information is available via the Government’s Farming Blog, which outlines the types of items likely to be included and key requirements ahead of applications opening.

Preparing Early is Key

Farm Cornwall is encouraging farmers to begin preparations as early as possible to avoid delays or missed opportunities when the scheme opens.

For certain items, particularly those relating to pollution reduction, approval from Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) may be required. As CSF support is limited, early engagement is strongly advised. A list of items requiring CSF input is available on the Farming Blog.

Farmers can contact the CSF team for Devon and Cornwall at:
csf.devoncornwall@naturalengland.org.uk

Important Considerations Before Applying

There are several key steps farmers should take in advance of submitting an application:

• Register any newly acquired land to your SBI number via the RPA system
• Inform your landlord if you are a tenant planning to carry out grant-funded work
• Ensure you have sufficient funds in place, as grant payments are made after work is completed

Without the correct permissions and registrations in place ahead of time, applications may be delayed or declined.

Preliminary details are available on the Government Blog: The 2026 Capital Grants offer – The Farming Blog

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Upcoming Workshops

Farm Cornwall will also be running a series of workshops across Cornwall to help farmers better understand the latest grants and funding opportunities, including the upcoming Capital Grants scheme.

These sessions will cover SFI, Capital Grants and FETF, along with practical advice on preparing for applications. The workshops are free to attend thanks to support from The Royal Countryside Fund, with refreshments provided.

Tuesday 14 April, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Hayle Rugby Club, TR27 4PS
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1985705134511?aff=oddtdtcreator

Thursday 16 April, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Blisland Village Hall, PL30 4JY
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1985282728082?aff=oddtdtcreator

Tuesday 21 April, 11:00am – 1:00pm
Cornwall Farm Machinery, Trispen, TR4 9BE
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1985705424378?aff=oddtdtcreator

Wednesday 6 May, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Millennium Hall, Pensilva, PL14 5NF
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1985705707224?aff=oddtdtcreator

Further details can be found on the events page of our website.