The first call for applications under the Government’s €100m Scheme for the Agri-food sector was opened on Wednesday.
The Scheme agreed by Government at the end of 2020, has been established in recognition of the sector’s unique exposure to the impact of Brexit. Up to €70m is available under the first call, which is being administered by Enterprise Ireland.
It is open to large, medium or small enterprises, engaged in the processing and marketing of primary meat and dairy products to apply.
The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue TD made the call.
Minister McConalogue said: “Sustainability, competitiveness and innovation are vital so that our agri-food sector continues to grow existing and new markets.
“That often requires significant capital outlay and this new fund is designed to ensure that the food industry can invest now in projects that will underpin its sustainable development over the next decade.
“The projects that will qualify for funding are focused on the future, supporting either new products and/or new market diversification strategies.
“I hope that the Government’s support for these strategic investments will bring benefits for all those along the supply chain, particularly farmers as the primary producer of our food offering.”
As with any public funding, detailed terms and conditions will apply to this scheme, which will be awarded by Enterprise Ireland on the basis of a competitive call.
All relevant documentation is now available on Enterprise Ireland’s website. A week of consultation and briefing will commence immediately. A webinar for applicants hosted by Enterprise Ireland will be available on February 9th and companies can make enquiries to CIS@enterprise-ireland.com.
Eligible companies are invited to submit applications from Wednesday, 10th February until the closing date on Thursday, 15th April.
