Farmers and land managers across the Isle of Wight have a fresh opportunity to access vital funding as Defra reopens its Capital Grants offer, making £150 million available to support sustainable farming and environmental improvements.

This funding is part of the government’s wider Plan for Change and aims to help farm businesses boost profitability, while delivering positive outcomes for nature and water quality.

What’s Available?

Farmers can now apply for funding to purchase any of 78 eligible items, including:

• Hedgerow planting to support biodiversity
• Natural flood management measures
• Livestock equipment to improve water quality
• New capital items such as:
  • Woodland assessments
  • Wildfire preparedness checklists
  • Stone wall repairs
  • Hosting educational visits

These grants are designed to support both productivity and environmental stewardship, helping farmers future-proof their operations.

Funding Limits

To ensure fair access and effective use of public funds, Defra has introduced funding caps for four of the six item groups:

• £25,000 for each of the following groups:
  • Water quality
  • Air quality
  • Natural flood management
• £35,000 for the group covering boundaries, trees and orchards

Farmers can apply for items across all six groups, but only one successful application per Single Business Identifier (SBI) will be allowed each calendar year.

When to Apply

Applications are open year-round, but this round will close once the funding is fully allocated. While Defra aims to give notice before closing, this may not always be possible—so early applications are encouraged.

A new round is expected to open in 2026, with further improvements to the offer.

Local Support Available

Need help navigating the application process or understanding how the grants can support your land and water management goals?

The Catchment Sensitive Farming team on the Isle of Wight is here to help.

Email: catchmentsensitivefarmingiow@naturalenterprise.co.uk
Phone: 01983 296244

This is a fantastic opportunity to invest in your farm’s future while contributing to a healthier environment for the Isle of Wight. Don’t miss out—get in touch today and start your application.

Further reading: Capital items: guidance for applicants and agreement holders – GOV.UK