The call for proposals for Agri-Food Tourism Initiatives under the 2023 Rural Innovation and Development Fund is now open.
I visit many producers, services and farmers, particularly in Laois and Offaly and I know how innovative and enterprising they are. I am delighted that the Department of Agriculture has a dedicated fund to support agri-tourism innovation and I hope to see Laois, Offaly and Westmeath and wider Midlands based initiatives apply: We have so much to offer.
This fund supports a wide variety of activities of agriculture, the food produced and local and regional tourism. It may involve staying on farm or touring food trails, events and festivals, and other local food, farmer and artisan markets schemes.
Laois Taste, the mark of origin for Laois food and drink producers, was a successful awardee of this fund in 2022.
I particularly welcome the fund’s focus on projects with the potential to energise the rural economy by encouraging job creation and sustainable enterprise development. I encourage small-scale food producers, farmers considering diversification and anyone interested in the showcasing of local culture, local products and eco-tourism to research it.
Eligible existing local rural food/artisan markets can also apply to maximise their potential and/or expand.
Funding will be provided by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) to part fund initiatives designed to promote agri-food tourism. The maximum amount that will be paid to any project is €25,000 (incl VAT). Closing date/time for receipt of proposals is: 12 noon on 23rd February 2023.
Funding terms and conditions are available https://www.gov.ie/en/form/4411a-call-for-proposals-agri-food-tourism/
