September 11, 2017
Grants of up to $100,000 are now available for Queensland food producers looking to break into new overseas markets or boost their export earnings.
Agriculture Minister Bill Byrne said the grants were part of the State Government’s commitment to stimulate jobs and economic growth in rural and regional areas.
The grants are part of the $1.3 million, two-year Growing Queensland’s Food Exports pilot program announced in the State Budget.
The first round of funding opened last week with concept proposals due no later than close of business Thursday, October 5.
“Successful applicants will then be invited to submit a full application by December 1, 2017,” Mr Byrne said.
He said the State Government recognised the potential for Queensland farmers to benefit from the State’s deserved reputation for producing safe, high-quality food.
“Free trade agreements present our producers with new opportunities, but we know that it can be a daunting prospect to find new customers overseas, especially for those with no previous export experience.
“The whole community benefits by supporting producers to improve their export competitiveness by better understanding their markets and how they can deliver their produce through better technical, logistic and market development.
“Grants are available to producers already involved in international export, or those who are export-ready and looking to access overseas markets.”
Mr Byrne said the grants would directly contribute to the State Government’s aim to increase Queensland’s exports to 22 per cent of the national total.
“As Queensland is Australia’s largest producer of vegetables and the second largest producer of fruit and nuts, this pilot program is focused primarily, but not exclusively, on horticulture to enable Queensland producers to capitalise on this export potential,” he said.
The program will provide matched funding of up to $100,000 (minimum of $50,000) over two years per eligible project. Applicants must co-contribute at least 50 per cent of the total funds required.
Co-contributions can include up to half the value (25 per cent of total project costs) of in-kind contributions including freight costs, product and reasonable salary costs for key personnel.
There will be a second funding round in July 2018.
A DAF Program Manager is available to discuss proposals on a one-on-one basis. Producers who would like to know more should phone 13-25-23 or email DAF
