Farming Innovation Programme: Small R&D Partnership Projects Round 5
UK Research and Innovation funds collaborative R&D to advance innovative farming science, technology, and sustainability through the Farming Innovation Programme: Small R&D Partnership Projects Round 5.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: October 14, 2026: Competition closes
Funding Amounts: Up to £13 million total; individual project costs must be £1M–£3M, up to 30 months duration
Summary: Supports collaborative R&D projects advancing innovative farming practices and technologies through UK business partnerships.
Key Information: Lead must be a UK business; consortium must include at least one UK SME; projects must benefit farmers, growers, or foresters in England.
Description
This funding opportunity, part of the Defra Farming Innovation Programme and delivered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in partnership with Innovate UK, aims to support collaborative small R&D partnership projects that advance innovative farming practices and technologies. The competition targets projects that improve productivity, sustainability, and resilience in UK agriculture, contributing to net zero goals and delivering tangible benefits for farmers, growers, or foresters in England. Projects must be collaborative, involve UK-registered businesses, and foster meaningful engagement with end users and the research community.
