Encouraging small businesses to thrive and foster collaboration
amongst producers and food groups to promote local produce.
The Scottish Government is providing £100,000 funding for the
sixth round of the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's
Regional Food Fund.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available to Scottish food business
for projects aimed at elevating Scotland's food and drink
industry, enhancing food tourism and showcasing the best local
produce the country has to offer.
Since 2021, the Scottish Government has provided over £500,000 to
the fund, which has supported 104 collaborative projects, varying
from creative artwork to increase customer numbers, new equipment
and regional marketing campaigns.
Rural Affairs Secretary said:
“Scotland's food and drink industry is worth £15 billion to the
Scottish economy; it is one of the country's largest
employers and is already well-recognised and established across
the world.
“However, we realise how vital engaging with regional
markets is in achieving our industry strategy and growth
ambitions for the next ten years. That's why, through remarkable
initiatives like the Regional Food Fund, we are providing small
projects the opportunity to promote and showcase their regional
goods.
“This funding enables businesses to raise awareness of locally
available produce to communities and showcase some of Scotland's
most exciting food and drink ventures.”
Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, Fiona
Richmond said:
"As the Regional Food Fund enters its sixth round, we look
forward to reviewing a diverse range of applications. Over the
years, the fund has supported everything from food and drink
festivals and campaigns to collaborative initiatives showcasing
the journey from field to fork. This highlights the strength of
the desire for local produce and the growing food tourism scene
in Scotland.
“The fund encourages regional collaboration and celebrates unique
food and drink stories that continue to nurture and elevate
Scotland's thriving food culture, making it a renowned
destination for food experiences."
Background
Applications for the sixth round of the fund are now open on the Scotland
Food & Drink website. The closing date for
applications is 17:00 on 30 April 2025.
All application guidance and application forms are available on the
Scotland Food & Drink website, along with previous
successful applicants and success stories.
