Tips for Farming Equipment and Technology Fund applications

Farmers are being urged to check their Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) grant applications carefully after the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) flagged up issues with accuracy.

There are just three weeks left for applications to be lodged before the 7 January deadline, but there are problems with some that have already been submitted, says the NFU’s business advice team.

The RPA has cited issues of accuracy for applicants bidding for a share of the £17m funding.

Applications could encounter problems if detail such as the email used on the application form does not exactly match what is on the RPA’s online records. The Single Business Identifier (SBI) and Company Registration Number (CRN) must also be linked to an applicant’s RPA records.

See also: Farming investment fund grants – what’s on offer?

The NFU says it is important that applicants leave themselves sufficient time to correct erroneous details on their forms.

“If you wish to apply, it is critical that all guidance is read in full,’’ it advises.

“You need to be clear about what information is needed to make a successful application and help avoid problems.

“Go on to the Rural Payments Online service beforehand to check, and if necessary update any contact details or permissions. This will save time in the long run.’’

Competitive scheme

The FETF is a competitive scheme that allows farmers, foresters and contractors to apply from a defined list of 120 smaller grant items – each item has a standard grant contribution associated with it.

The minimum total grant contribution is £2,000, while the upper total grant contribution for this round of the scheme is £25,000.

Members are likely to know whether they are successful in February 2022 – if they are, the minimum specification must be met for an item awarded.

“Contact the RPA on 03000 200 301 or FETFClaims@rpa.gov.uk if you are unsure regarding procurement of items and their specification,’’ the NFU suggests.

“It is important to note that only new items are allowed; any purchases of second-hand equipment, ex-demo or nearly new equipment will result in the whole claim being voided.’’

The claim deadline is midnight on 30 September 2022.