THE Scottish Government has encouraged applications for funding from projects which celebrate Scotland’s local sourced and produced food and drink, which is “some of the finest in the world”.

The Regional Food Fund, which seeks to support Scotland’s food and drink sector’s recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic through £110,000 of Scottish Government funding, will provide grants of up to £5000 to applicants across the nation.

The fund specifically pertains to collaborative projects, and can be applied for by individual businesses in the food and drink sector – including primary producers, or on behalf of a collaborative group or project – as well as rural or urban community groups, or individuals on behalf of a collaborative project.

Last year, the fund helped support 42 projects, including regional food group producers in Argyll & Bute and the Bowhouse market in Fife.

Commenting, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Island Mairi Gougeon said: “This government is committed to supporting and promoting Scotland’s local produce, which is some of the finest in the world.

“I would encourage eligible groups and businesses to apply for this year’s Regional Food Fund.

“Since its launch in 2018, the Regional Food Fund has provided over £550,000 to 121 projects, and this additional funding will support many more projects and initiatives.”

Fiona Richmond, head of regional food at Scotland Food & Drink, added: “The Regional Food Fund has already played an important role in promoting food and drink in local communities and delivering benefits to Scotland’s local food and drink sector over the long-term.

“It’s great to see the fund reopen and continuing to promote and encourage great local food initiatives by supporting regional activities, networks and collaborative initiatives across the country.”

Applications for the Regional Food Fund should be submitted by 5pm, May 9 2022.