We have published our new TMAF funding strategy for the next five years which will guide what and who we will invest in to fulfil our stated aim of contributing to the progress and sustainability of farming, particularly in the Eastern Counties of the UK.
Targeted sectors for our support
We look ahead in order to review our preferences for spending the charitable funds at our disposal, in the region of £400k per annum. Our 2021 review identifies the following main sectors we wish to support:
- Arable crop research at the Morley farm
- Demonstration of best practice on the Morley farm
- PhD research in certain preferred areas of activity
- Land-based education and initiatives to inform society about agriculture
- Continuous professional development in agriculture
Long-term vision of farming research
Uniquely, TMAF has a comprehensive database of long-term research and farm records. We intend to continue to invest in long-term and sizable trials alongside demonstrating best practice on a farm scale. Most trials work is currently carried out by NIAB, BBRO and JIC but the TMAF farm also supports other research organisations and commercial company trials.
We wish to continue our investment in research including, but not exclusively, the following contemporary farming issues:
- Maximising best economic yield under different management regimes
- Measurement of soil health, including structure, carbon content and biodiversity
- Developing affordable methodologies and management practices to measure soil parameters
- Examining production systems with reduced inputs
- Researching practical farm solutions to reduce farming’s impact on the environment
TMAF believes in investing in people
In common with many agri-food charities, and preferably in partnership with them, TMAF offers support for a wide range of activities to inform society about agriculture. We are particularly keen to support initiatives with schoolchildren (especially those at secondary school and considering their career paths) and young adults who have already chosen land-based courses at college or university.
In addition, TMAF supports professional business development of agricultural workers and other professionals. For example, in partnership with the Felix Cobbold Trust, we fund an annual three-day communications course aimed to improve the presentation and multimedia skills of future industry leaders.
At TMAF, we welcome applications for funding from individuals and organisations. Read our full TMAF Five Year Funding Strategy 2021.