Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has announced the opening of tranche 2 of the 2026-2027 Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme (NIRFP).

It follows the issuing in May of funding totalling £245,000 for applicants in tranche 1.

DAERA said the funding supported the "delivery of a wide range of projects".

The department said the programme will continue to provide support for the delivery of "high impact projects that will raise the profile of high-quality local food and drink".

This year, the NIRFP has been enhanced to widen participation and support a broader range of applicants and projects, all of which must contribute to the outcomes of Northern Ireland's Food Strategy Framework (FSF) and Food Action Plan (FAP).

Applications are invited from not-for-profit groups and organisations, as well as registered charities.

Tranche 2 is open as of now, and will remain open until August 10, with the projects for which funding are awarded to be carried out between October 1 and March 31 next year.

DAERA said the enhanced NIRFP will focus on funding projects which have the potential to deliver progress towards achievement of the strategic priorities of the Food Strategy Framework and Food Action Plan.

Therefore, the objectives of the enhanced NIRFP have been updated to: raise awareness of locally produced and balanced diets; increasing environmental sustainability and resilience of local agri-food chains; support the development a local agri-food sector; and promote Northern Ireland's food and drink.

The NIRFP has allocated funding to local events and initiatives by providing financial support in three areas: regional fairs and exhibitions; seminars and workshops, and information programmes.

Applications must be submitted by 4:00p.m on Monday, August 10, and awards will be subject to budget availability.

Grant funding is available at up to 40% of eligible project expenditure.

All projects must raise the profile of NI regional food and contribute to the outcomes of the NI Food Strategy Framework.

Only not-for-profit groups with a Northern Ireland membership; registered charities; or not-for-profit regional development agencies - e.g. borough or district councils - are eligible to apply.