Eat SW Scotland have launched a new programme for start-ups in the sector, in collaboration with Dumfries and Galloway Council and funded by the Regional Food Fund.
It will be run as a free pilot to nurture ambitious new businesses locally.
And it will cover all the topics needed to grow a successful food and drink business, from food safety standards to brands to sales channels. Every participant will be given a chance to trial their products in a retail outlet or a farmers’ markets.
There will be two half days of face-to-face training as well as one-to -one support. The programme will culminate in a pitch where applicants will be given the opportunity to present their product to the panel to try. The panel will consist of a wholesaler, an independent business, a food producer and a representative from the hospitality industry to give feedback and advice.
Everyone who successfully completes the programme will receive a £500 grant to spend on their business.
Ruaridh Hesketh, chair of Eat SW Scotland, said: “The Jump Start programme wants to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation within the food sector in the region. This is vitally important and allows the region to carry on its fantastic reputation as a leading food destination within Scotland.”
Any start up food business, or even those thinking of starting a food business, should email [email protected] to register interest and get an application form.
