SFI 2026 is on the horizon, and this time the structure will look different. Defra has confirmed that the Sustainable Farming Incentive will reopen in 2026 with a redesigned offer, clearer timelines and a more structured application process. (gov.uk)
If you are planning to apply, preparation now will determine how smooth that process feels in June and September.
This guide explains what we know so far, what key dates to note, which actions may stay or change, and how to get your evidence in order before the rush.
When does SFI 2026 open?
Defra has confirmed two application windows for 2026:
- June 2026: first window, prioritising smaller farms and those without an existing Environmental Land Management agreement
- September 2026: second window, open to a wider pool of applicants
Full details of the redesigned offer will be published before the first window opens. (gov.uk)
If you may qualify for the June window, early preparation is critical.
How JustFarm helps
JustFarm alerts you ahead of scheme windows and helps you build a ready-to-submit plan well before applications open.
Why was SFI paused and what does that mean for 2026?
SFI stopped accepting new applications in March 2025 after allocated funding for that period was fully committed, while existing agreements continued. (ahdb.org.uk)
The 2026 relaunch is designed to avoid that uncertainty by using defined application windows and clearer budget structures.
For farmers, that means fewer surprises, but potentially more competition within each window.
How JustFarm helps
If you missed out previously, JustFarm helps you prepare early so you are ready to apply at the start of the next window.
Will SFI 2026 be simpler?
Defra has stated that SFI 2026 will be simpler, with actions streamlined to reduce complexity while still supporting sustainable food production and environmental delivery. (defrafarming.blog.gov.uk)
The intention is to narrow the offer to the most effective and practical actions.
Simpler does not mean lighter on compliance. Evidence requirements are expected to remain robust.
How JustFarm helps
JustFarm translates scheme rules into clear field-level guidance, showing what you can apply for and what evidence each action needs.
What are the key SFI 2026 dates farmers need?
At this stage, the confirmed timeline includes:
- Before June 2026: full details of the redesigned SFI offer published
- June 2026: first application window opens
- September 2026: second application window opens
(gov.uk)
Now is the time to prepare mapping, rotations and evidence structures.
How JustFarm helps
JustFarm works backwards from these dates, helping you track readiness and avoid last-minute document gathering.
Which SFI actions are likely to stay or change?
Defra has not yet published the full 2026 action list. What has been confirmed is that actions will be streamlined and aligned more clearly with productivity and environmental outcomes. (defrafarming.blog.gov.uk)
That means:
- Some overlapping or less-used actions may be removed
- Core soil, water and habitat-focused actions are likely to remain
- Environmental delivery linked to food production will be emphasised
Until the final list is published, the safest strategy is to focus on getting your farm data and evidence structure in order.
How JustFarm helps
JustFarm keeps your land parcels mapped and your evidence structured, so when the final action list is released, you can match actions to fields quickly.
How to get your evidence in order now before the rush
One of the biggest mistakes farmers make is waiting for the scheme details before building their evidence system.
SFI actions feel manageable until someone asks for proof.
Strong evidence usually includes:
- Accurate parcel maps
- Dated photos showing establishment and progress
- Field operation logs
- Invoices and supporting documents
- Clear links between activity and the claimed action
Building this gradually over the season is far easier than reconstructing it later.
How JustFarm helps
JustFarm captures photos, notes and documents directly in the field, links them automatically to the correct parcel and action, and shows you what evidence is missing long before inspection time.
Why SFI 2026 will reward prepared farms
With two defined windows and a potentially competitive June round, the farms that succeed will be those that:
- Know exactly which actions suit their land
- Have clear parcel mapping
- Can evidence what they are doing
- Are ready to submit early
Preparation is not about guessing policy. It is about building a clean, organised system that can adapt quickly once final details are published.
How JustFarm helps you stay compliant as SFI evolves
JustFarm was built for this exact environment.
It helps you:
- Map fields and overlay eligible actions
- See guidance in plain language within each parcel
- Capture and store evidence for seven years
- Track agreement dates and deadlines
- Export inspection-ready reports instantly
- Monitor how complete your evidence is at any point
As SFI 2026 approaches, staying organised is not optional. It is the difference between calm and chaos.
What to do next
- Review your current agreements and evidence gaps
- Update your field maps
- Begin consistent photo and record capture now
- Watch for full SFI 2026 publication before June
- Prepare your plan early, especially if eligible for the first window
SFI 2026 is coming. The farms that prepare now will be in the strongest position when applications open.
