The Farming Investment Fund (FIF) applications opened last week, offering millions in investment for farmers — and the great news is that it covers rainwater harvesting equipment, which we stock!
What does the FIF grant cover?
With the government phasing out direct payments to farmers, the FIF provides £27 million in grants to pay for infrastructure and equipment that improves efficiency and protects the environment.
This scheme replaces the Countryside Productivity Small Grants programme, which paid out £12,000 per application. Farmers can now claim up to £25,000 in the first application window of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund and a total of £50,000 over the duration of the scheme. The minimum grant amount has been reduced to £2,000.
There are 119 eligible items (up from 87), including slurry separators, direct drills, slurry application equipment, and rainwater harvesting tanks. Many additional items are now aimed at the forestry and horticulture sectors — a notable expansion from previous schemes.
Each piece of equipment has a set grant value, meaning farmers are paid a fixed amount regardless of the actual purchase cost. For example, those buying rainwater harvesting tanks will receive £939 for tanks of at least 5,000 litres and £3,678 for tanks of 50,000 litres or more.
The total fund is shared with the Farming Transformation Fund, which supports larger-scale technology investments. Initially, this focuses on water management — offering grants for crop irrigation and on-farm reservoirs.
Rainwater harvesting tanks
Rainwater harvesting equipment is eligible under this grant if the following conditions are met, as outlined in the FIF manual.
Eligible tanks must:
- Have a minimum capacity of 5,000 litres (lower grant) or 50,000 litres (higher grant)
- Be an above-ground tank
- Include a two-stage pre-filter for removing debris and soil before water enters the tank
- Include an electric pump to distribute water as required
- Include a UV filter capable of treating at least 30 litres per minute at 30 mJ/cm² or higher, with auto shut-off for safety during power or bulb failure
How can we help you?
We provide rainwater harvesting tanks up to a huge 2,000,000 litres capacity — whatever your application, we’ve got you covered. We can also supply all the filters and pumps needed to meet FIF grant eligibility requirements.
Speak to one of our experts and we’ll help design a system that fits your needs and maximises your grant value.
Who is eligible?
Farmers, horticulturalists, forestry owners, and contractors within these sectors are eligible to apply for the grant.
When is the deadline?
The initial application deadline is 12 January 2022, with a final completion deadline of 30 June 2022.
Call us today on 0121 351 3230 to order your tank and submit your application before the deadline.
Alternatively, fill out our enquiry form: