New €250k fund will support agri-business start-ups

Enterprise Ireland has launched a new € 250,000 Competitive Feasibility Fund aimed at stimulating new start-ups in the agri-business sector.

The fund, which can provide up to € 25,000 per project, will be open for applications until Tuesday, 21st October 2014.

The Competitive Feasibility Fund will support new start up companies or individual entrepreneurs to investigate the viability of a new significant growth oriented business or proposition in the agri-business sector. The funding will enable the promoters to reach firm conclusions regarding the project’s viability and strategies for developing and commercialising the innovative product or service on international markets.

It is open to applications from individuals, early stage companies or prospective businesses operating in the agri-business sector including; machine design & manufacturing; fabrication, engineering & technical activities; life sciences products with application in the agri-sector; farm related software and related services; vet-pharma, animal health & chemical products.

Making the announcement at the National Ploughing Championships, Minister Bruton said that the fund will "help provide support to innovative companies seeking to grow and create jobs in the sector".