Regional Food Programme re-opens for applications

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and Invest NI have temporarily reopened the local Regional Food Programme (NIRFP) for 2009/10.

DARD will be accepting applications up to 12pm on Friday 8 May 2009 which will provide the opportunity for eligible groups to submit proposals for funding.

The aim of the Programme is to promote quality regional food and to help increase its consumption by provision of financial support in five key areas namely:

• Regional fairs/shows;
• Information programmes;
• Award ceremonies;
• Seminars/ workshops; and
• Market intelligence/research.

State Aid restrictions mean that only agri-food groups representative of producers and/or processors who have local membership, registered charities or regional development agencies can apply.

Within the last year, the Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme (NIRFP) has supported a wide range of initiatives which have not only promoted local quality produce, but have also led to greater collaboration across the entire local agri-food sector.

Application forms for funding to deliver the programme can be obtained from:

Notes to Editors:

1. The Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme was established as part of the implementation of The Fit for Market Report, which was published by the Food Strategy Group in November 2004.

2. Successful applications to the NIRFP can obtain up to 50% financial contributions on eligible expenditure.

3. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.