July 24, 2019
A new round of the State Government’s Rural Economic Development (RED) grants program has opened for expressions of interest.
The grants provide co-contributions up to $250,000 for food and agricultural businesses to support shovel-ready projects that create jobs related to value-added primary production.
The aim is to provide economic benefits to rural and regional communities.
Agriculture Minister Mark Furner said $3.3 million worth of projects from the first round would create up to 600 jobs and help 15 rural businesses to expand.
“To be eligible to apply, applicants must propose an agricultural supply chain project based in regional Queensland that will generate economic growth and local jobs,” Mr Furner said.
“Eligible projects may implement new technologies and innovations that enhance productivity, assist with business development and expansion, or work to achieve improved economies of scale.
“Applicants must also demonstrate an ability to provide sufficient finance to match the grant and propose a project that has not already received approval or acceptance under another government scheme.”
Mr Furner said the first round of grants supported businesses in the Maranoa, Lockyer Valley, Central Highlands, Toowoomba, Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Mareeba, Balonne, North Burnett, Western Downs and Southern Downs regions.
“We’ve seen some exciting projects that will greatly benefit and value add to the agricultural supply chains in regional areas, which will not only increase agriculture production but are expected to create up to 600 new jobs in the sector,” he said.
The RED Grant program is funded for a total of $10 million over three years.
Expressions of interest for Round 2 close on September 6.
The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority is administering the RED Grants program on behalf of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
- More information, including program guidelines, is available online
