Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir has announced the opening of the 2025/26 Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme (NIRFP).
Applications are invited from not-for-profit groups and regional development agencies as well as registered charities. The programme provides support of up to £250,000 to help raise the profile of quality regional food.
Last year, the programme provided funding to 18 local projects including the Food Pavilion at Balmoral Show.
Over 100 food and drink producers from across Northern Ireland were able to sell their produce direct to the public and also showcase to trade buyers.
Welcoming the opening of the programme, Minister Muir said: “The programme provides a very important source of funding to help promote our food and drink sector.
“In line with the recently published Northern Ireland Food Framework, it will encourage collaboration between all sectors and representative bodies within the local food industry through financial support to help showcase quality regional food.”
The programme has supported many local events and initiatives by providing financial support in three key areas, including: Regional fairs/exhibitions; Seminars/workshops; and information programmes.
In 2024/25 the NIRFP awarded funding to 18 projects, providing local producers with showcasing opportunities at a range of agri-food events across Northern Ireland.
“I will continue to support the delivery of high quality, high impact projects that will raise the profile of local quality produce across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and GB,” the minister said.
Applications are now open for projects taking place between May 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 4:00p.m on Wednesday April 16, 2025. Awards will be subject to budget availability.
Scheme rules mean that only not-for-profit groups with a Northern Ireland membership, registered charities or not-for-profit regional development agencies that plan to deliver projects that raise the profile of regional food can apply.
Applications for collaborative ventures involving two or more eligible organisations working together to deliver the objectives of the programme are encouraged.
