Food Works 2026 applications now open
Food Works, Ireland’s leading investment accelerator for high-potential food and drink companies, launches recruitment drive for 2026 programme
Print24 September 2025
Food Works has today (24 September) announced the call for applications to its 2026 programme.
Backed by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, the state-funded initiative has already helped over 130 ambitious companies to launch, scale or secure investment since its launch in 2012.
The programme has been instrumental in the success of brands such as All Real Nutrition, Grá Chocolates, Chimac, Valentia Island Vermouth and Wicklow Wolf, proving its role as a launchpad for some of Ireland’s best-known innovators.
Growth
Food Works combines the expertise and resources of the three state agencies to fast-track growth, providing participants with investor-readiness training, expert mentorship, and access to world-class facilities for product development.
The ten-month programme is designed to help food and drink entrepreneurs scale faster and smarter.
Taking part in the programme has been shown to dramatically improve the odds for new food businesses – companies that participate in Food Works are five times more likely to remain in business.
This year’s Food Works cohort features an exciting mix of start-ups such as Bamboolas, BioVit, Femme Biome, Fierce Mild, Ól, RYSE, Sligo Bay Oysters, and Smokin Bones; companies shaping the future of food, from biotech and nutrition to innovative flavours and sustainable seafood.
Speaking about the benefits of the programme, Aisling Kelly Hunter from Sligo Bay Oysters said: “Food Works has been an amazing experience.
“The programme really works as it takes you back to the basics and makes you think about all the facets of your product, specifically about how to develop your brand and how can you hone in on key areas that might need work.”
Nicholas Deaney from BioVit said: “I couldn’t recommend Food Works more.
“Taking part in this programme offers you access to mentors, support, and invaluable expertise across all aspects of the food-value chain.
“The insights into who your customers could be, financial planning, as well as the level of support offered, helps you look closer at your business, poking holes where needed with the view of helping you become airtight as you grow.”
Since the programme began, Enterprise Ireland has invested over €8.02 million in Food Works companies including 24 High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) and 29 PSSF/CSF investments.
Food Works 2026
Food Works runs annually from February to November.
Participating companies take part in workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, sustainable manufacturing and marketing.
Successful applicants are supported to get investor-ready by developing a comprehensive business plan focussed on scaling internationally.
They also receive customised support from business advisors, facilitated peer-to-peer learning and the opportunity to avail of feasibility grant funding of up to €30,000.
The three state agencies, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, work jointly to deliver the Food Works programme.
· Bord Bia provides strategic insight and support, assisting participating companies in their understanding of consumers, competitors, trends, opportunities and both domestic and international markets.
· Enterprise Ireland focuses on helping entrepreneurs to start and grow their business internationally. It works collaboratively with the High Potential Start-Ups (HPSUs) taking part in Food Works to develop a robust funding strategy to drive growth and supports them to prepare an investor ready business plan.
· Teagasc provides technical support to companies in the development of high-quality, sustainable products, processes and packaging solutions. State-of-the-art food centres in Dublin and Cork provide participants with access to facilities, equipment, and specialist expertise.
Applications close on 28 November, full details and an application form are available here.
Read more: Bord Bia appoints Conor O’Sullivan as UK market manager
© 2025, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan
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