The Andrews Government is backing Ballarat’s small-scale and craft producers to grow – creating new jobs and attracting more visitors from interstate and overseas to enjoy our locally-made food, beer and spirits.

Labor Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison, today launched the Government’s $10 million Small-Scale and Craft Program, encouraging all small-scale producers across the region to apply.

Two streams of funding are available under the new program:

Stream One – Small-scale and Craft Business Development: Grants up to $25,000 are available to eligible small-scale and craft producers for projects that support businesses to scale up, expand their operations and diversify their products – with applications closing on 6 December.

Stream Two – Job Creation and Economic Development: Grants of $25,000-$200,000 will go to eligible small scale and craft agribusinesses for significant projects that will deliver benefits to the community and generate jobs. Projects involving multiple businesses are encouraged to submit Expressions of Interest, which close on 31 December.

This new program follows on from the successful Artisanal Sector Program, which delivered grants to businesses in Victoria’s highly valued and diverse artisanal produce sector, helping them grow production and take their local produce to the world.

A number of producers in Ballarat successfully received grants in the Artisanal Sector Program, including Backyard Beekeeping Ballarat, Kittletys, Red Duck Brewery and Salt Kitchen Charcuterie.

Ms Addison said Ballarat is renowned for its premium produce and the Government is proud to support agricultural businesses that not only provide unique specialty produce, but create jobs and attract tourism.

“Ballarat’s small-scale and craft producers have enormous potential to take the state’s phenomenal produce to the world and we’re backing their expansions, job creation and new products,” Ms Addison said.

“If you’re one of Ballarat’s unique, small-scale food, craft beer or spirit producers, I encourage you to apply for a grant. And if you’re a Victorian who loves good food and drink, get out and support our stellar local producers,” she said.

To find out more about the program, eligibility requirements and to apply, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/agriculture/food-and-fibre-industries/artisanal-agriculture.