Funding for farsighted food businesses

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Regional Economies Tim Mulherin joined with Member for Bulimba Di Farmer to announce the opening of the Queensland Government's Food Innovation and Productivity Incentives (FIPI) program.

From today, producers, processors and retailers who operate a food business that embraces innovation, new processes and technology are encouraged to submit a funding application for $2 million in grants. Mr Mulherin said the grants scheme was a key plank in the Queensland Government's landmark, industry-wide plan to more than double the value of the state's food sector by 2020.

"This sector is currently worth $18.7 billion, but with the right incentives and support I believe a value of $40 billion is achievable," he said. "Innovation is crucial to growing productivity. That is why we've established the FIPI program as a key initiative of the Queensland food policy, Food for a Growing Economy.

"Dollar-for-dollar grants of $25,000 to $100,000 will be made available to locally owned organisations, cooperatives and associations across the food value chain, particularly small-to-medium sized businesses. "We're seeking pioneering projects that engage new processes and technologies, increase opportunities for collaboration, and embed innovative practices in their business or industry sector.

"What we're looking for are commercial ventures that design and implement new technologies for production, processing or distribution practices. "Preference will also be given to proposals that incorporate innovative redesigns of existing production or processing lines to improve efficiencies and productivity."

Ms Farmer said that local industries and small businesses could be among those to benefit most from the FIPI program. "I know many companies in my electorate would be excited to see that the Bligh Government supports their vision of an innovative, productive and growing food industry," Ms Farmer said.

"We are committed to working with small businesses and others in the food industry to grow this sector of our economy to provide more jobs for locals and to see more Queensland produce on our plates." Mr Mulherin said he hoped that in time, this funding would contribute to the development of an entirely new, iconic Queensland food product.

"Innovative food businesses can call on expertise from the Health and Food Sciences Precinct at Coopers Plains," he said. "This $100 million precinct offers a one-stop-shop for food industry and agri-businesses to access a wide range of research facilities. They include a purpose-built food processing pilot plant and consumer/sensory evaluation facilities to help industry develop food products from the initial concept stage through to final production and market acceptance.

"This facility highlights the state government's focus on making Queensland's food sector the most innovative in Australia. "Along with initiatives such as the Health and Food Sciences Precinct, the FIPI grants will help boost the profitability of food businesses and industries, nurture new ideas and drive progress in this important industry area."


Agriculture, Food and Regional Economies
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
07/02/2012

Permanent Link: Funding for farsighted food businesses
Publish Date: 08 Feb 12

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