Defra has announced that the Capital Grants scheme has been closed after the successful allocation of £150m.
Over 8,000 applications were submitted in less than five weeks, representing the fastest uptake ever for the offer. According to Defra, the new thresholds in place have meant that more farmers than ever have been able to access financial support.
Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, Daniel Zeichner said: “I am delighted to see such strong demand in our Capital Grants offer, and strong momentum behind nature-friendly farming.
“We know that for farm businesses to thrive, they need to be profitable, and we will ensure that every penny of the budget reaches farmers as part of the government’s Plan for Change.”
Defra also published updates throughout the application period, enabling growers to keep track of when funding was 50% and 75% allocated.
Successful applicants will receive their allocation of the funding as soon as work is completed and they have submitted their claim for payment.