Projects from the Borders to the Outer Hebrides are being awarded
grants of up to £5,000 to help to promote food products from
their region and establish new markets.
Food festivals, food and drink trails, markets and online shops
are among the 22 local and collaborative projects to receive
support from the latest round of the Scottish Government’s
Regional Food Fund.
The Fund, managed by Scotland Food & Drink, aims to support
regional growth by providing support for projects to promote and
sell products from their areas. A fourth round of funding opened
last October, with a total of £100,000 available.
Rural Affairs Secretary visited the Aberdeen
Business Improvement District, which has received a grant to
promote Aberdeen Restaurant Week – a campaign to increase
footfall and spend on local food and drink in the city.
Ms Gougeon said:
“Scotland has some of the best food and drink in the world - the
industry is worth £15 billion to our economy, supports thousands
of jobs and businesses and is a success story at home and
internationally.
“But there is no doubt that the sector has borne the brunt of an
array of significant challenges in recent years and has
repeatedly had to respond and adapt as a result.
“The Regional Food Fund is providing much-needed support to local
businesses, producers and community groups to showcase the best
products that their regions have to offer. To date, over £750,000
has been awarded to 160 projects across Scotland.
“The Fund is part of our wider Good Food Nation plans to improve
the availability of local, high quality food, whilst also
ensuring our food industry continues to grow in a way that is
profitable and sustainable.”
Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink Fiona Richmond
said:
“It is fantastic to once again deliver the Regional Food Fund and
support 22 exciting projects across Scotland. It is evident from
the variety of projects that the desire to nurture a thriving
local food scene and develop food and drink experiences is as
strong as ever. All these projects play a part in making Scotland
a renowned food tourism destination. We’d like to congratulate
all the successful applicants and we look forward to working with
them over the next year.”
Chief Executive of Aberdeen Inspired Adrian Watson said:
“We are delighted this grant from the Scottish Government’s
Regional Food Fund will allow us to expand our already hugely
successful Aberdeen Restaurant Week.
“This welcome support means the next Aberdeen Restaurant Week,
starting on January 22, will be the biggest yet with almost 70
restaurants, bars and cafes taking part. That will bring even
more people into the city centre and provide an even bigger
much-needed boost for local business.”
Background
Grow Regionally | Scotland
Food & Drink (foodanddrink.scot)
