Defra has launched a new grant scheme to champion food tourism which is open to applications until 26 September 2016.

The grant scheme forms part of the Defra’s Great British Food Campaign, which aims to celebrate our world class food industry and culture, drive growth and jobs in the sector and enhance Britain’s reputation as a great food nation. See: www.greatbritishfoodcampaign.com

Enhancing food tourism is an emerging policy ambition under the ‘culture’ strand of the Campaign and is supported by Defra research.

The Rural Tourism and Local Food and Drink report, published July 2016, concludes that stronger local food identities in rural areas have the potential to increase the attractiveness of rural destinations, encourage greater tourism expenditures, extend the tourism season and retain tourism expenditures in the local economy. We are keen that projects funded through this grant scheme build on the benefits and success factors this research identifies.

The overarching aims of the grant scheme are to:

- increase the attractiveness of destinations, by enhancing its local identity and reputation by offering food-related recreational opportunities for visitors;
- extend the tourism season, by supporting year-round tourism in the form of food and drinks based attractions such as trails, festivals, markets or other initiatives providing opportunities to attract visitors at different times of the year;
- increase the retention of tourism expenditures in the local economy.

For more information and how to apply please click here.