O’Shea Urges Cork Agri-Food Sector to Apply for Rural Innovation and Development Fund

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has encouraged farmers, food producers, community groups and tourism operators across Cork to apply for funding under the Rural Innovation and Development Fund, describing it as a major opportunity for the county to showcase its agri-food strengths on a national stage.

The fund supports agri-food tourism projects, including food festivals, farm-based visitor experiences, food trails, rural markets and initiatives that connect local produce with tourism and community development.

Deputy O’Shea said “Cork is internationally recognised for the quality and diversity of its food produce, from our farming families and artisan producers to our coastal and rural communities. This funding call is a real opportunity for Cork to build on that reputation, attract visitors, and support rural jobs and enterprise.”

The Deputy noted that a wide range of projects were supported nationally in 2025, including food festivals, farm shops, farmers’ markets and experiential food tourism initiatives, demonstrating the flexibility of the fund and the range of ideas that can succeed.

“What’s particularly encouraging is the variety of projects that received funding last year. Whether it’s a community-led food festival, a farm-based experience, or a local food market, this scheme shows that innovative, locally driven ideas can and do get supported,” he added.

Deputy O’Shea said Cork is well placed to benefit from the scheme given its strong agri-food base, vibrant rural communities and growing food tourism sector. “I would strongly encourage groups and individuals in Cork to put forward applications. This is a chance to tell Cork’s food story, support local producers and create new visitor experiences that benefit the wider rural economy.”

Applications under the Rural Innovation and Development Fund will be assessed through a competitive process. The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

Further details and application forms are available through the Department’s website – Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine