New support hub launched for ADOPT Fund
ADAS, in partnership with the UK Agri-Tech Centre and the Soil Association, has been awarded the role of managing the Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) Fund Innovation Support Hub.
The ADOPT Fund, part of Defra’s Farming Innovation Programme delivered by Innovate UK, will provide farmer-led, smaller-scale innovation grants, for farmers, growers and farm businesses to trial new technology and methods on their farm.
As part of the ADOPT initiative, ADAS, the UK Agri-Tech Centre, and Innovative Farmers (part of the Soil Association), have launched a support hub to help farmers, growers, and foresters:
- Apply for funding with simple, user-friendly guidance.
- Access expert support to help set up and manage on-farm trials successfully.
- Find the right people—connecting with facilitators, advisors and peers for collaboration.
- Share insights and results to benefit the wider farming community and ensure continuous improvement.
Simplifying access to resources to help innovation
The fund prioritises accessibility and real-world impact. It ensures that farmers of all types, from small family operations to larger enterprises, can engage, test and scale solutions that work for them.
ADAS Managing Director Jackie Evans said:
“ADAS is delighted to be selected to lead this project. We will bring our farm-focused expertise, supported by knowledge of practical innovation, to help farmers improve their businesses. Our own staff and consortium members already ‘think farmer’ and look forward to assisting applicants focus on what matters to them.”
Phil Bicknell, CEO at UK Agri-Tech Centre explained:
“We know that farmers are busy, and applying for funding can often feel overwhelming. The ADOPT Innovation Support Hub is here to provide straightforward, step-by-step support—whether it’s developing trial ideas, applying for funding or sharing knowledge with the wider community, including farming groups and stakeholders.”
Unlike previous innovation funds, ADOPT is designed to put practical on-farm experimentation and innovation directly in the hands of farmers. It aims to support a wide range of innovations, from sustainable farming practices to on-farm trials.
Jackie added “By supporting farmers to test and share new ideas, we can unlock the full potential of UK agriculture—making farming more resilient, profitable and environmentally sound”.
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