
Grants of up to £1000 are available to eligible local food and drink businesses to help them adapt their operations ahead of re-opening at the end of April, from making small changes to their premises to developing their online presence.
LEADER Local Action Group Chair Douglas Johnston said: “The aim of the scheme is to help rural food and drink businesses get back on their feet and re-open in a safe and socially distant way. Funds can be used to implement a range of risk mitigating measures, from Covid-19 training for staff to the construction of outdoor covered seating areas.”
The fund will be administered by Forth Valley Food and Drink, a local network established in 2020 to support and promote the region’s rich local larder.
Network coordinator Carolyn McGill said: “We’re heartened to have a date for the re-opening of hospitality after an extremely challenging winter for the sector. The fund is a welcome boost and will help hard hit businesses across rural Forth Valley adapt their practices and premises ahead of re-opening, keeping both staff and customers safe.”
To check whether your business is eligible and to request an application form, please email hello@forthvalleyfoodanddrink.org
The fund will open for applications on 6 April, with the first round closing at 5pm on 15 April 2021.

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