The Sustainable Farming Incentive

The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) gives farmers a choice of actions that reward and support sustainable food production while protecting and enhancing nature.

We are not currently accepting new SFI applications.

On 7 July 2025 the Sustainable Farming Incentive Expanded Offer for 2024 (SFI 2024) re-opened for applications from certain eligible applicants, who we have written to.

For all other farmers, SFI remains closed for applications. Please read the Written Ministerial Statement on the UK Parliament website for more information.

Farmers in existing SFI agreements will continue to be paid under the terms of their agreements.  

Our Environmental Land Management schemes will remain in place, including SFI, and there will be a new and improved SFI offer opening for applications in 2026.

We will build on what has made SFI effective so far, providing more information in summer 2025.

You can find out more on Defra’s farming blog here: An update on the Sustainable Farming Incentive – Farming