Applications have now opened for a fund to support
Scottish food and drink suppliers and producers to invest
in future growth.
The annual Food Processing, Marketing and Cooperation Grant
Scheme (FPMC) will enable investment across a range of
projects including buildings and equipment, feasibility
studies, co-operative ventures and the improvement of
supply-chain efficiency.
A total of £7.3 million is available in this financial year
to support initiatives that will safeguard jobs and
increase sector efficiency.
Rural Affairs Secretary said:
“Our food and drink sector creates amazing produce that is
enjoyed across local, national and international markets.
“As well as encouraging innovation and co-operation, this
scheme will also help sustain and create employment
opportunities within our rural communities which have been
particularly hardly hit by the damaging impact of Brexit.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has also underlined the need for a
strong food supply chain and growing consumer interest in
food that is produced locally to a high standard.
“Looking to the future, this funding will help new and
established businesses to move into emerging markets and
ensure the long-term viability of our primary producers.”
Applicants to the scheme will be asked to demonstrate the
benefits their project will provide to the local economy.
This includes shortening supply chains, increased of use of
local produce and markets and benefits to the wider local
economy.
Businesses will also be asked to demonstrate their
commitment to the principles of fair work and outline the
ways their proposed projects will contribute to net zero.
Previous successful applicants include Fife-based The
Buffalo farm who received funding to help diversify from
buffalo meat to a range of dairy products using buffalo
milk, while Crafty Maltsters Ltd secured an award of more
than £144,000 towards the creation of a new maltings
facility at their Auchtermuchty farm.
