Filligans of Glenties encouraging start-ups to apply for Food Academy 2024

Popular Glenties-based food company Filligans is encouraging start-up and early-stage food and drink Irish businesses to apply for the Food Academy 2024. 

The programme is actively seeking applications from budding start-up and early-stage food and drink producers across Ireland. 

Now in its 11th year, this extended commitment highlights the sustained success and positive impact the Food Academy has had on the local Irish food and drink industry.

Speaking about his experience with Food Academy, Willie Cremen, Director at Filligans said:

“Our food story started in 1997 when we began making jam, marmalade, and chutney from our country kitchen in Glenties, west Donegal. We’ve always believed in creating products in small batches and using traditional farmhouse methods using the very best of natural ingredients.

"It is a natural progression for us to work with Supervalu and the Food Academy programme, a nationally recognised supporter of local producers. Providing a structured programme where we can learn how to enhance our business and reach new customers, while retaining our business identity is very attractive.”

The Food Academy is a unique and tailored business development initiative for start-up and early-stage producers, which is supported by SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office.

This programme not only helps indigenous businesses but also contributes to the overall growth and sustainability of the Irish food industry. Additionally, it serves as a platform for showcasing the excellence of quality Irish products and the innovative spirit of food and drink producers across the nation. 

Over the past 11 years, more than 1,000 producers from all 26 counties of Ireland have successfully completed the Food Academy programme. 

Since its inception in 2013, Food Academy producers have collectively generated €230 million in product sales within SuperValu, supporting 1,500 jobs in the economy. 

Apply for the Food Academy today through your Local Enterprise Office at: https://www.localenterprise.ie/FoodSupports/Food-Academy-Programme/ 

The closing date for applications is April 5, 2024.