The decision comes after the first round attracted significant demand, with 7584 applications submitted. Of those, 1672 were successful, while 5910 applications were unsuccessful — meaning around three‑quarters of applicants did not receive funding. The Scottish Government said many unsuccessful applications were linked to issues including ineligibility, incomplete information or failure to meet requirements. Announcing changes to the scheme, Mr Swinney said the next round would be designed to make FFIS 'simpler, fairer and more accessible'. At least 725 farming and crofting businesses will share £14.25 million through the next round of FFIS.