New model shifts focus to partnerships
The Centre operates 43 facilities covering crops, livestock, aquaculture, engineering, robotics and artificial intelligence. Under the new model, it plans to transfer facility operations to partner organisations on a case-by-case basis, rather than sell the facilities. The partners that will take over individual operations have not yet been identified.
Chief engagement officer Daniel Himsworth said the Centre wanted to become a connector between agri-tech businesses, farmers, food producers, retailers, academics, investors and government. Its priorities include tackling drought, labour shortages and disease prevention, while helping farmers improve yields.
Chief executive Steve McLean, who joined in January 2026, said supporting affected employees was an immediate priority. The Centre developed the proposed changes with Innovate UK and support from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Funding continues despite concerns over job losses
The Centre was created in April 2024 by merging three government-backed organisations: Agri- EPI, the Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock, and Crop Health and Protection. The merger aimed to combine research facilities, expertise and networks to accelerate agricultural technology adoption.
The Centre receives core government funding through Innovate UK and has also generated income from testing services, collaborative research grants and start-ups using its facilities. Himsworth said the existing arrangement sometimes created duplication because the Centre competed with research partners for contracts while also working with them.
The government has confirmed that national investment in agri-tech remains on course to reach at least £290 million by 2030 through the Farming Innovation Programme and UK Research and Innovation support. Innovate UK funding under existing agreements will continue until March 2027. The Centre also has a three-year funding agreement, although its value has not been disclosed.
Farmers and start-ups question practical support
The restructuring has raised concerns about the UK's ability to develop and test agricultural technology. One farmer described the proposed cuts as a major setback, while Tom Allen-Stevens, managing director of the British On-Farm Innovation Network, warned against losing key project management staff.
The Centre says existing projects will continue during the transition. The Defra-backed Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies (Adopt) programme will also continue, supporting farmer-led trials involving irrigation, water storage and soil health alongside Adas and the Soil Association.
Start-up experiences have been mixed. One business supported the move towards a clearer focus, while another argued that companies need experienced advisers who can help with scaling, regulation, investor searches, and business planning, rather than introductions alone. The success of the new model will depend on whether businesses retain access to practical expertise as the Centre shifts towards partnerships.