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 successful programme participants that are clients of Enterprise Ireland can apply for HPSU feasibility grant funding of up to €30,000.
  • 3 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.
  • 4 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.
  • 5 Where is the Food Works programme?
    The Food Works programme is a hybrid model of face to face workshops and on-line meetings. Our in person events are hosted in Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland or Teagasc facilities. We maximize networking opportunities on these dates. Our on-line events are hosted on zoom and allow us to invite contributors from Ireland and internationally.
  • 6 Can I still apply for Food Works if my company is four years old?
    Food Works can only accept applications from companies who have registered with the CRO within the last four years.
  • 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.
  • 10 What are the criteria for the Food Works programme?
    Companies must be less than four years old to apply for Food Works. In addition, the process short lists and selects applicants on the basis of innovation, viability to scale, potential to export and strength of team.
  • 11 When does the programme start?
    The FoodWorks 2025 programme starts on Tuesday, 4th February and runs until 25th November
  • 12 After I submit my application form what is next?
    The first step in the process is to submit an application form.  The closing date for the 2025 programme is Friday, 29th November 2024. A shortlist of finalists will be invited to an interview with the FoodWorks panel on 14th & 15th January 2025
  • 13 Can I apply if I am not based in the Republic of Ireland
    Companies must be based in the Republic of Ireland to be eligible to apply for the Food Works programme
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