FAQ’s

We’re always happy to answer your questions. If we haven’t answered your query in the list below, please contact us here and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

  • 1 How much does the Food Works programme cost?
    Participation in the Food Works programme costs €3,000 (VAT exempt). This fee is invoiced in two instalments at the beginning and middle of the programme.
  • 2 How does the funding support work?
    If accepted on the programme, you are eligible to apply for feasibility grant funding of up to €35,000. This includes €15,000 for salary expenditure and up to €20,000 in grant funding for other eligible expenditure.
  • 3 How has Covid-19 affected the Food Works programme?
    The Food Works programme has been delivered online since April 2020. For the foreseeable future, all group workshops will continue to be delivered on Zoom. We encourage and welcome group interaction during these sessions. Where possible, we will circulate pre-work to maximise engagement during the session. Individual business advisor meetings will also be scheduled online.
  • 4 How many food businesses has Food Works worked with?
    Since 2012, we have worked with over 100 Irish food entrepreneurs. Support from Food Works has opened up a world of opportunity and driven the growth and export value of their food businesses.
  • 5 Who runs the Food Works programme?
    The Food Works programme is a collaborative tri-agency initiative run by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc. We also engage the support of business advisors and industry experts from Ireland and abroad across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, product development, marketing and other areas.
  • 6 Where is the Food Works programme?
    The Food Works programme has been delivered online since April 2020. Prior to Covid-19, we hosted our events in Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland or Teagasc facilities. We hope to resume live events when it is safe to do so.
  • 7 How does the programme end?
    The Food Works programme is designed to support you in completing an investor-ready business plan. The final day involves a pitch to a panel of high profile food and drink industry experts. The final pitch gives you an opportunity to receive external feedback and advice from industry peers.
  • 8 What happens after I complete the Food Works programme?
    You will leave the programme with a robust investor-ready business plan. You will also have made valuable contacts across the agencies and the food and drinks industry. These will enable you to continue to drive the growth of your business.
  • 9 How often does Food Works run?
    There is one Food Works programme every year. Typically the application deadline is December and the programme starts in Spring the following year.