Rural Enterprise News: 25 April

As we head into the busy summer season, don't miss these updates and opportunities for rural communities and enterprises:

Fife SME Development Grant

Financial support via small non-repayable grants to help small and medium-sized enterprises in Fife to develop and grow. You must be working with Business Gateway Fife to be considered. The deadline to apply to this fund is 31 January 2026. Find out more here.

Regional Food Fund 2025/26

Grants of between £1000 and £5000 are available for small-scale, collaborative projects that contribute to the sales and promotion of local food and drink across the country. All projects must be delivered by 31 March 2026. Find out more and apply here.

Climate Connect Perth & Kinross

Climate Connect Perth & Kinross is a new initiative that aims to connect people through a collaboration of established and emerging community networks of those taking action for nature, food, energy, transport and zero waste as well as the local Climate Café® Network. Check the Climate Connect website for more information. You can also attend the next event: The Great Food Debate, Wednesday, 30 April, Birnam Arts, 10:30–15:30. Find out more and book here.

Perth & Kinross Green Recovery Capital Development Grant

Businesses in Perth & Kinross can apply up to £25,000, covering up to 50% of eligible costs, to invest in capital projects. These could include to implement new systems, new ways of working, new machinery, and investment in green technology. Find out more and apply here.

Perth & Kinross Beyond Scotland Market Development Grant

This fund has reopened for 2025/26 and grants of up to £3000, for 50% of eligible costs, are available to Perth & Kinross businesses for projects or activities which will enable them to expand their markets overseas or into other parts of the UK (excluding Scotland). Find out more and apply here.

Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards

Entries for the 2025 awards are now open until 28 May. There are 12 categories under ‘Tasting’ and 10 under ‘Business’ and you can enter as many as you like. Find out more here.