DEFRA has announced that Round 2 of the Countryside Productivity Small Grant Scheme is now open for all farm types, with a total of £15 million available.

The scheme allows applications towards funding for new equipment (as listed in the Countryside Productivity Small Scheme Handbook Annex 3) with the list for Round 2 now more extensive with 26 new items added, and the specification from some existing items updated. The equipment is intended to help achieve technical efficiency, animal health & welfare, resource efficiency or nutrient management.

Grants will provide up to 40% of standard costs of the purchase price on an item. The minimum grant is £3,000 (equivalent of £7,500 spend) to a maximum of £12,000 (equivalent of £30,000 spend).

Applicants for Round 1 funding can submit a new application to receive funding in Round 2, the total value of both applications not being more than £12,000. If a claim was rejected or withdrawn in Round 1, then you can also reapply in Round 2.

Applications for the grant scheme must be submitted by midday on 3rd September 2019.

Applications are to be submitted online but quotes are not required as the scheme is based on standard costs.

The details on your Rural Payments Record must match the details given on the application form, else the application will be rejected.

Items must not be purchased before receiving a grant offer, and items must be purchased before claims can be submitted.

If the application is successful, all items applied for must be bought and must meet the specification listed in Annex 3.

No more than 150 days is allowed between the approval of application and submission of claims.

Successful applicants will then need to provide photos of the items working on their farm.

Round 1 was very popular with more than 3,500 applications worth £23.5 million being successful in receiving grants. Round 2 is likely to also be popular, and those thinking about purchasing equipment should investigate this grant scheme as soon as possible.

For further advice please contact us on 01768 866611 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.