The recent closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) to new applications has understandably sent ripples through the rural sector. For many, the scheme had become a cornerstone of environmental land management planning, providing some stability in an otherwise shifting policy landscape.
Having worked with landowners and farmers across Staffordshire, Shropshire and Cheshire for the past eight years, and now in my new role as Partner at Barbers Rural, I have already seen numerous funding schemes come and go. My promotion comes at a time of great change in the rural sector, with each scheme bringing its own challenges, but also new opportunities, and this moment is no exception.
While the SFI’s closure has disrupted some immediate plans, other routes to support remain open. The Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier scheme and Capital Grants are set to reopen this summer and could offer real potential for farms looking to continue or expand their environmental commitments. The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund is also proving valuable for those seeking to invest in on-farm efficiency and innovation. Localised support, such as the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) scheme, adds further possibilities for those in designated areas. These alternatives may not replicate the SFI, but they do represent positive, proactive steps that landowners can consider as part of a broader strategy.
As always, matching the right funding to the right business is key. Increasingly, this includes not only public grants but also exploring private investment or longer-term finance. At Barbers Rural, my fellow Partner Daniel Bowden and I are Agents for the Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (AMC), supporting clients with bespoke funding solutions for land purchase, diversification, infrastructure or succession planning. For many businesses, access to the right capital at the right time can be just as important as navigating grants and schemes.
While the rural sector once again faces a period of policy uncertainty, it is encouraging to see many farming businesses responding with creativity and resilience—reassessing land use, exploring diversification, and making considered investments. This shift in support presents a timely opportunity to pause, reflect, and plan ahead. With future schemes likely to favour those already embracing sustainable practices, taking action now could bring long-term benefits. Though no single scheme will suit every farm, a clear understanding of your land, business goals, and the evolving funding landscape will be essential to navigating change and continuing to thrive in the years ahead.