FETF 2026 Grant: What Farmers need to know
Trailer Engineering | 9th April 2026
What is the FETF 2026 Grant?
The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) is a UK government-backed scheme designed to help farmers invest in equipment that benefits efficiency, sustainability, and animal health.
In practice, this means financial support is offered towards pre-approved items, with funding aimed at encouraging modernisation across agricultural operations.
Looking for an FETF Water Bowser with an Integrated Trough?
Trailer Engineering manufactures FETF-compliant products, such as our water bowser with an integrated trough. Following the 2025 grant, our water trough bowsers have proven to be a reliable and trustworthy option for farmers and those involved in agriculture.
Reach out to our dedicated team for more information.
Rather than covering the entire project cost, the grant typically contributes a fixed amount towards specific items. This makes it important for applicants to understand not just eligibility, but how the equipment they choose fits within the scheme’s approved list.
Who is Eligible for FETF 2026?
Eligible
Eligibility for FETF funding generally applies to farmers, horticulturalists, forestry owners, contractors carrying out services (to farmers, horticulturalists or forestry owners).
The fund includes three grants to help with the following processes:
- Improve productivity
- Manage slurry
- Improve animal health and welfare
While requirements can vary slightly between funding rounds, applicants are usually expected to demonstrate that the equipment will be used for these agricultural purposes and contribute to improved outcomes such as efficiency or environmental benefit.
You are also eligible if you have received money from previous FETF grants.
Not Eligible
The following industries cannot apply for the FETF grant:
- Government departments
- Executive agencies
- Non-departmental public bodies
Equipment that is not listed on the list or does not meet the requirements are not eligible for the grant. Additionally, they must be new and bought outright, and not second-hand, hire purchase or leased products.
Importantly, various other livestock and poultry that involve goats, ducks, geese, gamebirds, and turkey are also not eligible for funding. Please ensure you check the GOV.UK website for up-to-date information.
Notably, you are also not eligible for the FETF grant if you previously left farming through the Lump Sum Exit Scheme (if you paid a lump sum, but are continuing as a contractor however, you can apply for the FETF).
FETF Animal Health and Welfare Grant Eligible Animals:
- Dairy cattle
- Beef cattle
- Sheep
- Pigs
- Laying chickens and broiler chickens (both including rearing and breeding farms)
What has changed in the FETF 2026 Grant?
In this round, some changes have been made to the grant in terms of what you can apply for and the application process. Here are some of the important changes:
- Vet advice and the new entrant score uplift have been removed.
- Some items within the grant have been added or removed. Please ensure you only check the most recent and up-to-date information.
- Using a separate correspondence address in the Farming Investment Fund (FIF) Service has now been removed. In this year's grant, your contact details must match those registered in the Rural Payments service.
See the other changes made on the official government website.
How much money will I receive in the FETF 2026 Grant?
Successful applicants can receive between £1000 to £25,000 towards improving productivity, managing slurry, or improving animal health and welfare. You can apply for all three of these themes up to a combined maximum of £75,000.
When is the deadline?
Information for the grant became public on 24th February 2026.
The grant application service opened on 17th March 2026 and will be open for applications until 28 April 2026, 12:00pm (Midday).
You must claim your payment by 20 January 2027 at midday.
What Equipment is Covered Under FETF 2026?
One of the most common questions around FETF is what equipment actually qualifies. The answer depends on the official item list released for the funding round, but it typically includes equipment that supports livestock management, water provision, and operational efficiency.
In practical terms, this often includes items such as:
- Water bowsers
- Feeding systems
- Mobile infrastructure designed to support livestock in field environments.
These types of solutions are particularly relevant for farms managing grazing systems, remote locations, or conservation-focused land use.
What Trailer Engineering Products can the FETF grand be used for?
Trailer Engineering manufactures a range of equipment that aligns with these use cases, including fuel and water bowsers and animal feeding systems. Please always cross reference with the official government website before purchasing.
FETF314SH - Water bowser with integrated trough (small)
Trailer Engineering 1125 Litre Animal Feeder Highway Bowser
- be a towable water bowser
- have a 1100L minimum tank capacity
- have a permanently fixed tank to the trailer
- have an integrated drinking trough
- fill the trough from the bowser automatically
FETF278SH - Water bowser with integrated trough
2000L Animal Feeder Highway Bowser with Trough
- Be a towable water bowser
- Have a minimum 2000L tank capacity
- Have a permanently fixed tank to the trailer
- Have an integrated drinking trough
- Fill the trough from the bowser automatically
Trailer Engineering's Agricultural Trough Bowsers
Trailer Engineering was approached by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust to design and build water trough bowsers for supplying water to their cattle. As it was also GB approved, it can take it onto the public highways to transport the Bowser around more easily.
Reach out to our dedicated team for more information.
How to Apply for the FETF 2026 Grant
Before applying for the FETF 2026 grant, ensure you have checked your eligibility on the official government website.
While the application itself is relatively straightforward, the challenge often lies in preparation. Understanding which items are eligible and ensuring your choices align with both your farm’s needs and the grant’s objectives can make a significant difference to the outcome.
Summary of Video
- Check eligibility - Ensure your farm and planned purchases qualify.
- Choose eligible items - Select from the official list of funded equipment.
- Apply online - Submit the application through the government portal.
- Wait for scoring/approval - Applications are assessed based on priorities and budget.
- Purchase after approval - You can only buy items after approval to receive funding.
Reach out to Trailer Engineering
With over 50 years of engineering experience, Trailer Engineering works closely with agricultural and farming clients to deliver equipment that meets both practical requirements and funding considerations.
Contact our team for more information.
Check out our complete, detailed guide to uncover the benefits of using our water bowsers by clicking here or by getting in touch with a member of our friendly team today at +44(0)1384 564765 , by emailing [email protected] or by using our quick and simple contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.