Scottish food businesses, producers and groups are encouraged to
apply for grants of up to £5,000 to promote and champion produce
from their local area.
Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's Regional Food Fund,
launches its fifth round with £100,000 available from the
Scottish Government to support regional food activity across
Scotland.
Since 2018, the Scottish Government has provided over £770,000 to
the fund, which has supported 167 collaborative projects, varying
from food and drink tourism trails, festivals, new equipment and
regional marketing campaigns.
Agriculture Minister said:
“Food and drink is one of our largest industry sectors,
and Scotland's largest employer with an industry value
of over £15 billion. The engagement of regional markets is vital
in achieving our industry strategy and growth ambitions for the
next ten years.
“Scotland has a highly successful and influential food and drink
sector and this fund allows us to demonstrate that through the
development of creative food and drink projects. These grants
allow opportunities to increase the promotion of local
produce, the chance for businesses to engage and educate local
communities about what is available and showcase some of our most
exciting food and drink ventures.”
Euan Armstrong, at Visit Moray Speyside, which was supported by
the fund said:
“The Regional Food Fund has contributed to Taste Of Moray
Speyside's overall brand presence by assisting in the development
of various events and promotional activities. The feedback from
businesses participating in Cocktail Week and Farm To Fork Week
has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Lesley Wilkinson of Forth Valley Food and Drink, another
recipient, said:
“The Regional Food Fund has been instrumental in bringing our
vision to life. It enabled us to produce a series of compelling
short documentary films that celebrate the rich and diverse food
and drink scene of the Forth Valley.”
Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, Fiona
Richmond said;
“The Regional Food Fund is now entering its fifth round, a real
testament to the importance of this programme. In the past, the
fund has helped bring to life food and drink festivals, promotion
campaigns for Scottish produce, market weekends, cook schools and
many more collaborative opportunities showing the quality of
produce and the journey from field to fork.
“The Fund encourages collaboration within regions and the supply
chain, shining a spotlight on unique food and drink stories and
experiences for us all to enjoy. The desire for local produce is
strong, and Scotland Food & Drink are proud to continue our
support to regional food and drink initiatives.”
Background
Eligible businesses and groups are encouraged to apply for a
grant and to work collaboratively with others to continue to
engage communities and achieve regional food and drink success.
The closing date for applications is 5pm on 30 August 2024.
Application form, application guidance and recipient case studies
can be found on the Scotland Food & Drink website.
Application form
More information on the Scotland Food & Drink
Regional Food Fund success stories
