Seventeen local agri-food tourism projects will receive €300,000 in funding from the Rural Innovation and Development Fund 2023, which is being provided through the Department of Agriculture, the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has announced.

“The connection between agriculture and rural tourism is real and tangible, given that we are such a great food nation with a strong track record in hospitality.

"There is a great interest from across the country this year, which highlights the interest in agri-food tourism and its importance to communities,” said Minister McConalogue.

Funding has been made available to the following successful initiatives:

  • Tipperary Food Producers Network (Farm tours and experiences) – €25,000
  • Monaghan County Council (Summer of Food) – €25,000
  • BIA Innovator Campus Galway (Food and Ag. experience) – €25,000
  • Wicklow Naturally Farm to Fork Trails – €24,479
  • Achonry Farmers Market - €9,800
  • Burren Eco Tourism Network (Burren Food Trail) – €25,000
  • Cromane Seafest, Co Kerry – €20,000
  • Drumshambo Community Council – €24,850
  • The Gourmet Greenway, Mulranny – €9,901.50
  • Wildacres Honey Tour – €14,385
  • Tipperary County Council (Destination Lough Derg) – €21,094.50
  • North Mayo Heritage Centre – €21,800
  • Carlow Tourism CLG (Taste In Carlow Food Network) – €12,275
  • Laois County Council (Laois Taste) – €8,593
  • Cavan County Council (Cavan Food Network) – €12,275
  • Boyne Valley Food Heroes – €12,275
  • Rock Farm Slane – €7,442

    • Minister McConalogue also said that “Agri-food tourism in rural areas allows our great food companies of all sizes to showcase their people, landscape, history and culture through agricultural produce, food and drink and local cuisine.

    “In addition, it provides opportunities for rural businesses, including farmers, producers and artisans, to develop their products and services, connect with the community and visitors and improve skills and best practice,” he concluded.