Government grants to help Cambridgeshire farmers boost drought resilience

Farmers and growers who invest in water-saving technologies and projects could be eligible for between £2,000 and £50,000.

The Agriculture Water Resilience Grant is designed to encourage agricultural businesses and horticultural growers to make more efficient use of water resources and adapt to future water challenges.

The business benefits of investing in infrastructure

Farming enterprises across East Anglia have already experienced the impact of prolonged dry periods, changing weather patterns and depletion of water resources.

This funding represents a valuable opportunity for businesses in one of the driest regions of the UK to invest in infrastructure and technology that may otherwise be difficult to justify solely from operational budgets.

Businesses that invest now in water-saving technologies and improved management systems should be better positioned to withstand future drought conditions, while also reducing operational costs and improving environmental performance.

WHAT projectS qualify for a water resilience grant?

Funding is available for a wide range of projects, from established technologies to innovative and bespoke solutions tailored to the specific needs of your individual business.

Examples of projects that could qualify include rainwater harvesting system, precision irrigation technology, drip & trickle irrigation and soil moisture monitoring equipment. Water storage and distribution improvements, along with water reuse and recycling systems, plus waste management solutions are also eligible.

How to meet the award criteria

The programme is keen to support new approaches and innovative projects that demonstrate potential to improve water resilience and sustainability across the sector. Successful projects need to demonstrate a clear case how they support environmentally sustainable farming and growing practices.

 

Five steps to GRANT funding success

If you are a business in Cambridgeshire considering an application, our advice is to:

1. Start early – if the pot has been allocated by January 2027, applications will close
2. Put together a clear project plan and timescale
3. Include realistic cost estimates
4. Identify how you will finance match funding
5. Ensure your project clearly demonstrates measurable improvements in water efficiency, water security or environmental outcomes. Gather evidence of the benefits before applying

 

When can I apply for a water resilience grant?

Applications can be submitted any time between 20 July 2026 and 17 January 2027. But funding is finite– the final stage in January 2027 is dependent on whether any funds remain!

 

How do I apply?

Make your application for the Cambridgeshire Agricultural Water Resilience Grant online.

TC Group’s agricultural experts work closely with farming and grower businesses, and we would encourage anyone eligible to consider whether they have projects planned that could qualify for support.

If you are considering investing in sustainable infrastructure or need expert advice, we can help you with early financial planning, cash flow forecasting and preparation of match funding – all vital elements in ensuring the best possible outcome.

 

FAQS

What is the Agriculture Water Resilience Grant

It’s a government-funded initiative to help fund investment in water-saving technologies and projects. It is designed to encourage farms and growing operations to make more efficient use of available resources and adapt to future water challenges.

How is the Agriculture Water Resilience Grant funded and delivered?
The scheme is part of the wider Water Efficiency Cambridgeshire Fund and is funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). It is delivered by Water Resources East (WRE) in partnership with Cambridgeshire County Council

Who can apply for the Agriculture Water Resilience Grant
Cambridgeshire farmers and growers with water-saving projects operating in the county can apply for the grant

What is the value of an Agriculture Water Resilience Grant
The grant will cover up to 50% of eligible project costs, paying between £2,000 to £50,000. Payments will be made after project costs have been incurred and successfully claimed

What’s the deadline to apply for an Agriculture Water Resilience Grant
The window to apply opened in July 2026. Applications will be reviewed at three intervals: 27 September 2026, 29 November 2026, 17 January 2027.