The Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation scheme has had funding increased by a huge 50% due to a new grant.
The scheme has been created to support local food suppliers and producers. This is driven by a government initiative to create a ‘Good Food Nation’ where producing, buying, selling and eating healthy food is second nature. The grant provides funds to help to make community production that is socially and environmentally sustainable.
Grants are available for start-ups and for the development of existing businesses. There will be three funding rounds annually, and payments will be made within eight weeks of successful applicants being announced.
Funding can be used to develop or create food processing facilities, improve supply-chain efficiency and market your products at home or abroad, or run co-operative ventures.
Individuals, groups or companies who are registered with the Rural Payments and Inspections Division can apply if they market their own produce or are involved in collaborative working within the food chain. Projects involving the production of fishery products are not eligible.
Find out more about eligibility and how to apply here.
