Grant or payment · Northern Ireland

Protein Crops Scheme (pilot)

Closed Farm schemes and payments

Payment for growing peas, field beans and sweet lupins, claimed on the Single Application.

From: DAERA (Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs)
How much: £330 per hectare. Total paid area capped at 1,300 ha across Northern Ireland, with a linear scale back if exceeded.
Who can apply: Farmers growing at least 0.3 ha of eligible protein crops (spring peas, spring or winter field beans, spring or winter sweet lupins). FSP does not have to be claimed.
Opens: 2 March 2026
Closes: 15 May 2026

What you’ll need

DAERA Category 1 Farm Business ID
Government Gateway or NI Direct (NIDA) login for DAERA Online Services
Single Application with protein crop fields declared

How to apply

Closed for 2026 (claimed on the 2026 Single Application)
Check DAERA for whether the pilot runs beyond 2026

DAERA says the pilot 'has been extended to 2026'. No 2027 decision found as of 30 October 2026. Clover, alfalfa and lucerne are not eligible.

Official page Check if it fits my farm

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Checked against the official pages on 29 October 2026. Sources: 1, 2, 3. Always read the official page before you apply.