08/01/2026
๐ 2026 SFI Update โ Get Ahead Now ๐ฑ
Following todayโs announcement at the Oxford Farming Conference, DEFRA has confirmed that the 2026 Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) will run with two application windows:
๐
June 2026 โ Smaller farms and those not currently in schemes
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September 2026 โ All other farms
While this brings some welcome clarity, key details such as payment rates, caps and scheme rules are still uncertain. What we do know from experience is that windows can open and close quickly โ and preparation is crucial.
๐ก Our top tips to get ahead for 2026:
โ๏ธ Hold an early review meeting to plan your preferred approach and identify which window applies to you
โ๏ธ Start preparing for Capital Grants now โ maps and draft plans ready = faster applications
โ๏ธ Check and update your RPA records (land use, boundaries, links) to avoid delays
โ๏ธ Model schemes with and without funding caps to understand potential outcomes
โ๏ธ Donโt miss declarations or deadlines โ costly mistakes are avoidable
โ๏ธ Plan for cashflow, as SFI payments wonโt arrive until later in 2026
๐ Preparation is your strongest asset in an uncertain funding landscape.
If youโd like help with SFI, Capital Grants, or alternative funding opportunities, our expert Rural team is here to support you.
๐ Call us on 01989 567233 to start planning today.