Unlocking Opportunities: A Guide to UK Agricultural Grants Funding Virtual Fencing
With the right approach, grants can be a powerful resource to enhance productivity, environmental responsibility and long-term business resilience.
UK-wide grants available:
FIPL - Farming in Protected Landscapes programme (DEFRA)
Running until March 2026 or depleted funds, the programme will fund projects that support nature recovery, mitigate the impacts of climate change, provide opportunities for people to discover the landscape and its cultural heritage, or to protect or improve the quality and character of the landscape or place.
Funding for farms trialling new technology. Covers maximum 70% of project costs.
National Trust
Conservation and grazing projects are eligible for support from the National Trust. Farmers working on or near these lands can use Monil collars to manage livestock in a manner that supports environmental and landscape aims.
RSBP: The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
The RSBP carries out conservation on a large scale. Virtual fences are a part of the efforts to protect and restore habitats.
Projects funded include ones connected closely with nature, larger-scale rural projects and anything connected to preserving British heritage. National Heritage Lottery funding is offered at a range of levels. Bids for less than £250,000 are considered monthly at local level. Applications requesting amounts of up to £5 million go before regional committees on a quarterly basis.
Regional Grant Support: Tapping into Local Resources
Each part of the UK—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland—has its own tailored grant schemes that reflect local agricultural priorities and challenges.
These region-specific programmes often offer funding for a variety of projects. Collaborating with local agricultural advisors or councils can help farmers identify the most relevant funding streams and maximise their chances of success.
Scotland
Future Farm Investment Scheme (FFIS)
Hurry, applications close 22 August 2025. FFIS is a capital grant scheme designed to help farmers and crofters in Scotland improve the environmental performance of their agricultural business. The application must meet at least one scheme objective:
- improve business efficiency and sustainability
- protect, restore or enhance the environment
- reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or
- mitigate the effect of climate change
CAGS - Crofting Agricultural Grants Scheme
Grants to tenant and crofters living in the Highlands and Islands Enterprise Area. Successful applications receive support towards the costs of their operations.
Wales
Ffermio Bro supports the Welsh Government's commitment to protect 30% of land, freshwater and seas for nature by 2030. This includes fencing and activities to facilitate grazing and improve upland grasslands, reducing carbon emissions on farms and other objectives. Applications accepted through January 2026.
Sustainable Farming Scheme
Coming in 2026, this scheme will support farmers wanting to focus more on rotational grazing of livestock to boost soil health.
Northwest England
Affinity Water Company
Affinity maintains biodiversity value on all sites where possible to increase value in accordance with the plan established for the site.
Know of one that isn't listed here? We're learning every day. Please, let us know at info@monil.com.
Funding the Future of UK Agriculture
The UK’s agricultural grants offer tangible support to those ready to innovate. Farmers and rural entrepreneurs who stay informed, act strategically and align with regional and national priorities can access the financial tools they need to thrive. The journey to a more sustainable and efficient future in agriculture is paved with opportunity—if you know where to look.
