Key Points
- The Food WorksSW in Weston-super-Mare will host new funded events including a workshop on financing opportunities from the South West Investment Fund.
- The programme receives funding from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and North Somerset Council to support food and drink businesses.
- Upcoming events feature “Financing the Future of Food and Drink” on 11 February 2026 and a Discovery Day on 5 March 2026.
- The centre provides innovation facilities, technical support, and networking for manufacturers across the South West region.
Weston-super-Mare (Bristol Express News) January 28, 2026 – The Food WorksSW, the South West’s dedicated food and drink innovation centre, has announced a series of new funded events aimed at supporting businesses in the sector. Located in the Weston Business Quarter, the facility offers workshops on funding, product development, and growth strategies.
These initiatives target small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to innovate and expand, with free sessions providing expert advice on accessing loans and equity from the £200 million South West Investment Fund launched by the British Business Bank.
What events is The Food WorksSW planning?
The Food WorksSW has scheduled “Financing the Future of Food and Drink” for Wednesday, 11 February 2026, from 10:00 to 13:00. This live workshop covers eligibility, application processes, and investment readiness for businesses eyeing growth funding between £25,000 and £2 million in loans or £150,000 to £5 million in equity.
A Discovery Day follows on Thursday, 5 March 2026, allowing visitors to explore the centre’s food-grade incubator units, development kitchens, meeting rooms, and on-site cafe. Pre-booking is required for events, with refreshments provided.
How is this programme funded?
The new events form part of a programme funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and North Somerset Council, according to reporting from Hale Events. This support enables The Food WorksSW to deliver targeted business assistance across the region.
The centre itself, a multi-million-pound facility opened in April 2020 with West of England Local Growth Fund backing, is owned by North Somerset Council and operated by the Future Food Partnership. It serves as a hub for networking, collaboration, and technical expertise.
Who can benefit from these opportunities?
Food and drink manufacturers, hospitality businesses, and SMEs with operations in the South West qualify, though the fund extends to those based or operating significantly in the area. The centre connects participants with industry partners, academics, and routes to market.
What does this mean for South West businesses?
These events aim to demystify funding access and foster innovation amid evolving market trends and regulations. By hosting such programmes, The Food WorksSW strengthens the regional ecosystem for sustainable growth in food production.
Businesses can contact the team at enquiries@foodworks-sw.co.uk or 01934 287710 for details on facilities and upcoming sessions.
