A recent survey showed that local food and drink businesses in Somerset face a number of challenges, from concerns over food regulations and labeling to issues with training and supply chains.

This has prompted Sedgemoor District Council and Somerset West and Taunton Council, together with the Heart of the South-West Growth Hub, South West Trading Standards and the Food Works, to run a series of workshops specifically designed for businesses in the food and drink.

At the highly successful event held on July 5, which was attended by over 20 local businesses, a new grant fund was announced.

Available to any food and drink business in the Sedgemoor or Somerset West and Taunton council areas, the bespoke support scheme is designed to help local businesses operating in the sector.

The councils have partnered with experts in the field to provide specific business support to address issues identified by the industry. The support available varies from expert advice and free training to small financial assistance.

To benefit from the program, interested companies must:

• Join “Thrive” – ​​free business support provided by the Heart of the South West Growth Hub, and track at least one full session via here.
• Attend one of the expert workshops throughout summer and fall 2022 or claim up to 2 hours of free expert advice from Trading Standards
• From December, apply to their respective council for a grant of up to £2,500 to improve their business.

For more information, Click here.