DAERA Minister Andrew Muir announced that the Sustainable Farming Investment Scheme will officially open for applications on 21 July 2026.
The initiative is a core part of the Department’s Sustainable Agriculture Programme, which aims to transition the sector toward greater climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
The scheme provides a 40% grant rate for precision technology and equipment.
To be eligible, investments must range between £3,000 and £62,500.
Support is available across the livestock, arable, and horticulture sectors for primary food producers holding a Category 1 Farm Business ID.
Minister Muir highlighted that the support targets a pre-selected list of items designed to improve business efficiency and animal health alongside environmental performance.
Eligible equipment includes:- Camera-guided weed control- Heat and health detection devices for livestock- Slurry and resource management tools- Precision monitoring equipment for crops and vegetables
Minister Muir described the scheme as a “significant element” in supporting an environmentally sustainable farming sector.
To simplify the process for farmers, DAERA will use an online application system based on reference prices.
This means that, unlike many other grant schemes, applicants are not required to provide individual quotes for the equipment they wish to purchase.
Potential applicants are advised to ensure their Government Gateway or NI Direct accounts are active and their registered contact details are up to date before the portal opens.
This first round of the scheme will remain open for six weeks.
All applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm on Thursday, 3 September 2026.
Additional rounds of the scheme are expected to be rolled out over the next three to four years.
