“Grow your Field” Funding released
As part of the next stage of the Future Fields strategy, Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers (QFVG) has released a seed funding opportunity for any projects across Queensland which align to any one of the four key fields or the fundamental fields.
Developed by QFVG in consultation with the Queensland fresh produce sector and supported by the Queensland Government, Future Fields sets out an ambitious vision for where the Queensland fresh produce sector wants to be in ten years.
The initial four key fields of strategic significance are:
Bio-strong.
Coordinated compliance.
Innovate to access.
Working smarter together.
QFVG Head of Engagement & Advocacy Angela Seng-Williams said Future Fields was the result of the horticulture industry and supply chain partners coming together with an active and collaborative mindset.
Industry was clear about needing seed money to ensure great ideas have a chance to grow and become a reality.
Over the next month, QFVG will be leading a competitive selection process with $100,000 available during the 2023/24 financial year to support and drive ideas that grow this vibrant industry.
“Seed funding of up to $20,000 per project is available to support applicants and projects in one or more of the priority fields or the fundamental fields,” Ms Seng-Williams said.
Examples of eligible projects include:
Ways to make it easier for growers to meet market requirements and comply with regulations through digitalisation and eliminating duplication.
Access to new domestic and overseas markets through significant transformation of fresh produce and product innovation.
Identification and use of labour-saving technologies that will help phase out labour intensive tasks.
Ways to work smarter together and build knowledge, understanding and confidence in the horticulture sector toward profitability, sustainability, optimism, and wellbeing.
Ways to strengthen pest and disease management practices through technology adoption, data sharing and collaboration.
Ways to tell a positive story about horticulture and the supply chain and be a ‘Horticulture Hero’.
“This is an exciting space to be working in and we look forward to supporting ideas which are put forward,” Ms Seng-Williams said.
To apply for the Grow Your Field: Seed Funding Opportunity, visit www.futurefields.info. Applications close 5pm, Friday 1 September 2023.
For further assistance or information, please contact Angela Williams, Head of Engagement & Advocacy on 0427 217 077 or aseng-williams@qfvg.com.au
The development and implementation of Future Fields has been assisted through Queensland Government funding support.
