This year marks a major milestone for Blas na hEireann as Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) from across the country have come together as a network to support the coveted Best Artisan award as well as collectively supporting the best in County awards for each of the ROI counties which they represent.
Photo: Joleen Cronin
“This collective support from the Local Enterprise Offices marks a significant moment for Blas na hÉireann. It’s a powerful endorsement of the vibrant food culture we have here, and it shows how deeply rooted the LEOs are in supporting local producers. Their unified backing not only strengthens the awards but also shows their commitment to the incredible artisans and producers taking part.” Fallon Moore, Blas na hÉireann
“The LEOs have long been the go-to support system for new and growing businesses, and having them step in with such coordinated support feels like a celebration of what the awards stand for — championing local, celebrating quality, and creating opportunities for growth. It sends a clear message to producers: you’re not alone — there is a strong, connected network here to help you thrive.”
“Blas na hÉireann celebrates the very best of Irish food and drink, and for many small producers, it represents a launchpad to national recognition. It was important for the Local Enterprise Offices to come together and support these awards because they align directly with our mission, helping local businesses start, scale, and succeed. The Best Artisan Producer category, in particular, reflects the heart of what LEOs support every day, passionate entrepreneurs bringing high quality, authentic products to market, often with strong ties to their communities, heritage, and local ingredients. By supporting this category, the LEOs are reinforcing the message that Ireland’s food culture is built on innovation, sustainability, and small scale excellence. It also provides a vital platform for producers to gain exposure, connect with buyers, and take the next step on their business journey.” Niall O’Keeffe, Head or Enterprise, Cork City LEO
This year, for the first time ever, the winner of Best Artisan will also receive a bursary supported by Loraine Cox Photography. The prize will be a Food Styling and Photography package valued at €1,350, which will include a combination of product photography and photographs of the winning producer. Critical tools for any artisan producer as they build their business.
Read details of the announcement in ShelfLife Magazine
How your Local Enterprise Office can help you….
Local Enterprise Offices provide a wide range of practical supports designed to help food and drink producers at every stage of their development. That includes expert mentoring, access to targeted training, and financial supports such as feasibility grants, priming grants for start ups, and business expansion funding for those looking to scale. Many producers also take part in national programmes like the Food Academy, which provides a structured route to develop products, build brand visibility, and access retail opportunities.
For those developing new markets, the Market Explorer Grant provides valuable assistance for international research and early stage export development. LEOs also work with businesses to build sustainability and digital transformation into their operations from the start, helping improve productivity, competitiveness, and long term resilience. For those ready to grow further, we provide direct pathways to supports from Enterprise Ireland and other national initiatives, ensuring producers have the tools, connections, and resources to compete and succeed.
Find out more https://www.localenterprise.ie/
