Successes

The Leader 4 programme for Torridge and North Devon is still quite new, but already we are starting to see some of our funded projects having a positive impact. Below is an outline of some initial successes, which we will update on a regular basis as new projects take shape.

North Devon Food and Drink Project

North Devon+, as applicant for the North Devon Food & Drink Project, has been granted £43,750 over two years. This project is helping food and drink producers in North Devon to raise the profile of quality local produce, encourage wider use and promotion through hotels, restaurants, retailers etc, and increase enjoyment through food tourism initiatives.

Applicant for the North Devon Food and Drink project, Helen Symons, states: "With buying and using local food being an increasing priority for our communities and visitors, it was great that the Local Action Group saw the potential of this project and the need in our area. Without Leader 4, there is currently very little funding that could develop our food businesses and services in the same way".

So far, the project has successfully achieved the following:

• Consultation with the sector in order for bespoke support - understanding needs of micro businesses
• Confirmation of the food & drink businesses on the food safety register within North Devon and Torridge
• Establish contact with Devon Food Group forum to ensure North Devon has a voice
• Key marketing and promotional platform The North Devon FoodFest 2009, with national, regional and local PR. Trade contacts/contracts established
• Working to obtain market intelligence on the Local Food market and consumer spending behavior to assist businesses
• Constructing a bespoke training programme for 2010 for food businesses

Business Growth Small Grant Scheme

The Business Growth Small Grant Scheme opened for grant submissions on 15th September 2009. In November, the scheme had already received over 300 registered enquiries and over 85 applications. Due to the high level of demand for funding, the amount available from the scheme was increased from £150,000 to £500,000 at the November meeting of the Leader 4 Local Action Group. Some of the first businesses funded through the scheme are already busy putting their plans into action.