MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde, Stuart McMillan, has urged local food and drink projects to apply for a new Scottish Government fund launched to drive projects that celebrate locally sourced and produced food and drink.
The Scotland Food & Drink Partnership was launched to help the sector with its recovery from COVID and prepare for Brexit, supported by £5 million from Scottish Government for 2020/21. An additional £50 million will be provided over 2021/22.
Since 2018, the fund has awarded over £350,000 to 79 creative, innovative & collaborative projects across the regions of Scotland.
Grants of up to £5000 are available to applicants, and the deadline to apply is 15 March 2021.

Commenting, Stuart said:
“Our world-class food and drink sector has faced an extremely challenging year, so this funding – which will contribute to its recovery from the pandemic – comes at an important time.
“Between Brexit and COVID-19, there are very few food and drink businesses which haven’t been seriously affected – but it’s vital our food and drink industry keeps growing and bringing benefits to Scotland and Inverclyde.
“This money will play 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.
“I’d encourage all eligible groups and businesses in Inverclyde to apply before the deadline on 15 March.”