Defra has announced the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) for 2025–26, a significant capital grants opportunity for rural businesses and community projects.
If you’re involved in any aspect of the wild game sector—from woodland management and game shooting to processing and eco-tourism—this fund could support your next big step.
How Can the Funding Be Used?
The REPF is designed to strengthen rural economies and foster innovation. For wild game enterprises, this could include:
- Investing in game larders or processing facilities
- Upgrading cold storage, butchery, and packaging equipment
- Developing game-based eco-tourism or sporting enterprises
- Enhancing infrastructure on rural estates
- Improving supply chains for sustainably sourced wild meat
Whether you work with venison, pheasant, partridge, grouse, rabbit, or other wild game, the fund can support projects that improve value-added processing, sustainability, and rural employment.
Why It Matters
The REPF is part of the government’s wider strategy to support rural innovation and economic growth. With increasing interest in wild, sustainable food and eco-tourism, now is the ideal time to invest in your operation’s future.
How to Apply
Each rural local authority manages its own REPF scheme, so application details will vary depending on location. Be sure to check with your local authority for specific eligibility criteria and timelines.
⏳ Deadline: Projects must be completed by March 2026, but funding is limited—so apply early to avoid missing out.
If you’re ready to expand or upgrade your wild game business, the Rural England Prosperity Fund offers the capital backing to help you do it.