Scottish projects centred on promoting food and drink products from their region and establishing new markets are being awarded grants of up to £5,000.
As part of the Scottish government’s Regional Food Fund, a total of £100,000 is available to support food festivals, food and drink trails, markets and online shops.
A total of 22 collaborative projects will receive support through the fund, which is managed by Scotland Food & Drink.
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi 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,” Gougeon said.
“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.”
Local food scene
Head of regional food at Scotland Food & Drink, Fiona Richmond, said it is evident from the projects that the desire to “nurture a thriving local food scene” is as strong as ever.
“It is fantastic to once again deliver the Regional Food Fund and support 22 exciting projects across Scotland,” she said.
“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.”
Rural Affairs Secretary Gougeon 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.
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.”
