The Appetizing Innovation scheme, run by Yorkshire Forward, is supporting projects costing from £5,000 upward, looking to benefit from access to the most up-to-date skills, technologies and equipment.
Financial assistance has also been increased to 60 per cent of the total project cost to encourage the food and drink industry to develop innovative new products, novel packaging ideas and new processing techniques.
The extra funding comes as a boost to all food and drink companies in the Yorkshire and Humber region, who remain keen to innovate but often lack the experience to do so or are wary of committing resources to product development during the current economic squeeze, according to Yorkshire Forward.
Led by Food Processing Faraday, Appetizing Innovation draws on the experience of a consortium of leading product and packaging experts. The project provides independent expertise and practical advice to support companies in their efforts to identify opportunities for innovation, improve commercial viability and successfully bring new concepts to the market.
Technology translator John Stanford said: "Some companies have exciting ideas for innovation but may feel it is too risky to try, or they think the project is too small to qualify for help. We want them to access, in as straightforward a way as possible, the expertise already available in the region.
"Businesses don't always know how to develop their ideas themselves, or where they can access help. The element of risk involved in new product development is also a key concern, which is why the funding offer has been increased to 60 per cent. With the support of the Appetizing Innovation team, there is a firm foundation for success. Our specialist expertise can give companies the confidence, inspiration and ideas for their products to fulfil their potential."
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