Still room for applicants under food and beverage grants

The federal government has revealed there is still scope for food and beverage manufacturers to apply for grants of up to $25,000 each to save money on energy bills, improve energy efficiency and adopt new energy technologies under the latest $19.9 million round of the Energy Efficient Communities (EEC) program.

The grants can be used to replace existing equipment with more energy efficient models, carry out energy audits, or improve energy monitoring and management – helping manufacturing businesses lower their power bills and emissions.

Announcing the grants last year assistant industry minister Tim Wilson said the program targets food and beverage manufacturers, which include some of the most energy intensive small and medium businesses in Australia.

“We’re supporting fantastic Aussie manufacturers like Bellevue Orchard based in in Officer, Victoria.

“Businesses like this and others around the country will benefit from investing in new energy efficient technologies and by understanding their energy consumption more thoroughly.”

The Energy Efficient Communities Program Food and Beverage Manufacturing Business Grants are still open, according to the department.

In summary:

• Eligible small and medium businesses in the sector can apply for grants between $10,000 and $25,000 for projects that improve energy efficiency.
• Grants will be paid upfront with no co-contribution requirement.
• Up to $19.984 million is available with a funding allocation for each state and territory.
• Grants will be awarded to eligible applicants on a first come, first served basis.
• Applications will close on 18 February 2022 (or earlier if state or territory funding limits are exhausted).
• And applicants will need to choose from a list of eligible projects outlined in Appendix A of the Grant Guidelines.

For further information or clarification about this grant opportunity, you can contact business.gov.au on 13 28 46 or by web chat or through the business.gov.au online enquiry form.

Picture: Tim Wilson

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