Funding now open for food program

Business Asia, Sept 30, 1999

The A$9.2 million dollar, three-year Food and Fibre Demand Chains Funding Program is now open for applications.

Businesses are encouraged to apply for funding, program board chairman Reg Clairs says.

"The aim of the program is to improve the export performance of Australia's food and fibre industries by assisting businesses develop and implement superior demand chain practices along every link in the chain from primary producers, manufacturers, packers, distributors, transport and logistics businesses, retailers and food service providers," he said.

"The board will be looking to fund projects that will grow Australia's food and fibre trade to the rest of the world and will consider proposals up to A$200,000, generally on a dollar for dollar basis, as a non repayable grant."

To be considered for funding, businesses must meet all the program's eligibility criteria. They would have to show:

* the likely significant, and sustainable, trade impact within two years of funding;

* that anticipated trade volumes would be unlikely, or delayed, without this funding;

* at least two or more businesses at different levels in the chain would be involved;

* a flow-on effect to other businesses, and demonstration of improved chain practices;

* the commitment of time and resources by business principals;

* that at least one chain partner was an Australian-based business;

* the financial capability of the participants to undertake the project;

* that any professional support had the necessary skills and expertise to ensure chain management skills were adopted by chain participants; and

* that contracted services were provided on reasonable terms and conditions.

Application forms can be submitted electronically by logging on to the website, located at http://www.supermarkettoasia.com.au/chains-program. Other material is also available on the site. For any additional information not found on the site, telephone Agri Chain Solutions Ltd on 1300-130-360 or e-mail acs.ltd@dynamite.com.au.