Early-stage food and drink companies from Galway are being encouraged to apply for Food Works 2023, Ireland’s leading programme for start-ups in the sector.
Food Works has helped raise over €6.5m in funding for participants over the last 10 years by combining the resources of Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc.
The programme is now looking for applications from ambitious start-up food and drink businesses to take part in 2023.
Among the companies from Galway who have previously taken part are Grá Chocolates, Salthill; Nua Naturals, Furboghgarve; and Micil Distillery, Connemara.
Food Works was established in 2012 and since then has welcomed over 100 companies through the programme.
These include hugely successful food and drink brands such as Wicklow Wolf; Nobó, Lismore Food Company, Fiid and Thanks Plants.
Successful applicants can receive feasibility grant funding of up to €35,000.
In addition, since the programme began, 19 participants have successfully secured High-Potential Start-Up investments and 17 companies have received Competitive Start-Up Funding.
Food Works 2023
Food Works runs annually over 10 months from February to December. Participating start-ups are supported to get investor ready by developing a comprehensive business plan focussed on scaling internationally.
Successful applicants take part in workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, product development and marketing.
They also receive customised support from business advisors, facilitated peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities across the industry – at home and abroad.
The closing date for applications for the 2023 programme is 2 December 2022. Full details and an application form are available at FoodWorksIreland.ie
