Addington Fund

The Fund supports working farmers across England and Wales through two distinct programmes. Emergency Relief (Forage Aid) provides a one-off delivery of animal feed for livestock, offering short-term relief during crises such as drought. The New Entrant Scheme encourages fresh talent into agriculture by funding equipment, training, and animal health products. Priority areas include healthy livestock management, sustainable soil care, preventing future issues that could affect long-term viability, and exceptional or innovative ideas. Specific items funded include soil and fodder analysis, livestock health planning, vet attestation, shearing services, livestock monitoring cameras, mobile fencing, hoof trimming equipment, and disinfection mats.

Only individuals can apply – the Fund does not make grants to organisations. Applicants must be working farmers whose main income comes from farming an agricultural holding in England or Wales. The New Entrant Scheme is for young people entering the agricultural industry in the same geographic area. The Fund prioritises those facing genuine hardship or demonstrating ambition and innovation in farming. There are no faith-based restrictions.

The Fund cannot assist when there is a loss or reduction of income due to market forces, nor can it provide grants towards business debts. It also does not fund items that are already eligible for funding elsewhere. For the New Entrant Scheme, capital works are excluded. The Fund does not support organisations, only individual farmers and new entrants.

The Addington Fund makes one-off grants, not multi-year commitments. Emergency Relief is delivered as a single delivery of animal feed, while the New Entrant Scheme provides grants for specific equipment, training, and animal health products. The Fund welcomes unsolicited applications and does not require match funding. It focuses on practical, direct support rather than ongoing partnerships.