Minister Heydon and Minister Grealish announce €300,000 funding for Agri-Food Tourism projects
'Our 10-year roadmap for the agriculture sector, Food Vision 2030, highlights the natural synergy between agri-food and local tourism' - Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, has announced the award of some €300,000 in funding to 22 local agri-food tourism projects.
The funding is being made available under the 2025 Rural Innovation and Development Fund operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
In the Déise, Taste Experiences Waterford was part-funded to the tune of €10,000.
Speaking on the funding, Minister Heydon said: “I am delighted to announce the successful projects, which have secured funding following the Agri-Food Tourism tender process for 2025.
"It is great to be able to support these initiatives and build on progress already made.”
Minister Heydon also highlighted: “The great geographical spread of the projects this year illustrates the interest in the sector, the development of agri-food tourism and its importance to communities throughout the country.
"Our 10-year roadmap for the agriculture sector, Food Vision 2030, highlights the natural synergy between agri-food and local tourism.”
Minister Heydon concluded by emphasising: “Agri-food tourism in rural areas allows our great food companies of all sizes to showcase their people, landscape, history and culture through agricultural produce, food and drink and local cuisine.
"In addition, it provides opportunities for rural businesses, including farmers, producers and artisans to develop their products and services, diversify their businesses, connect with the local community, welcome visitors and improve skills and best practice.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Food Promotion, Noel Grealish, also added: “I would like to congratulate all of the successful projects in this year's Agri-Food Tourism tender process.
"The large volume of applications submitted shows the appetite that this sector has for innovative and collaborative ventures in this sphere. The competition for funding under this programme is intense and those who were successful should be congratulated for their proposals and their upcoming projects.
"I wish all of those involved the best of luck for their events and I am sure that they will help to promote the fantastic food that this country produces year in and year out.”
