Farmers and growers across the UK will benefit from £12.6 million in new funding, with two fresh competitions backing research and development in agritech.

Backed through two new Farming Innovation Programme competitions – a ‘Dragons Den for farming’ – the funding delivered in partnership with Innovate UK will build on previously funded ideas like robotic strawberry pickers and early-warning health systems for cattle; practical solutions for everyday farmers.

“This is about giving farming businesses the tools they need to thrive,” farming minister Daniel Zeichner said.

“By working with investors to fund and develop new equipment and technology, we are helping farms become more resilient, productive and profitable.

“These grants put the Plan for Change into action – supporting farmers to adapt, compete and grow, whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.”

The competitions which open this autumn include the Small R&D Partnerships, which will grant up to £7.8m for later-stage projects, opening 15 September. These help businesses develop new farming products or services and move them closer to market.

Feasibility Studies will offer up to £4.8m for early-stage ideas, opening 13 October. These help test and develop new ideas and decide whether to invest in larger R&D projects.

Recommended reading

• Rosyth AgriTech iLivestock Claims Scotland Tech Innovator Award
• 5G Farming Robots Set to Boost Scottish Agriculture
• Glasgow Uni Compostable Sensors Could Grow Digital Agriculture

The programmes represent some of the UK Parliament’s £11.8bn allocation to sustainable farming and food production.

The investment underpins the government’s New Deal for Farmers, supporting growth and helping farm businesses return to profitability. Nearly £250m in farming grants are driving innovation and productivity, while new regulations will make supply chains fairer.

Further action includes a £200m National Biosecurity Centre to protect livestock, and the appointment of former NFU president Minette Batters to advise on reforms to boost farm profits.