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The new Sustainable Farming Incentive in 2026

11 June 2026

Proposing MP
Angela Eagle Lab
Wallasey
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
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TAGS
Agriculture & Rural Affairs

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement is about the upcoming Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme in England, designed to support farmers in managing their land sustainably.

Action Requested

Farmers will be able to apply for the improved SFI from June 30 and September 2026. The scheme includes £240 million funding, simplifications, and a cap on annual agreement amounts to ensure fairer distribution of funds among more farm businesses.

Key Facts

  • Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) is one of the Government’s Environmental Land Management Schemes.
  • Applications for the improved SFI will open from June 30 and September 2026 for small farms and without existing ELM revenue agreement.
  • £240 million funding is available, with £560 million already committed to over 39,000 live agreements.
  • A new annual agreement cap of £100,000 has been introduced to spread funding more fairly.
  • £50 million is available for new Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier agreements this year.
  • Final scheme guidance will be published next week.
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