Chef preparing food in a new kitchen funded by Innovation and Resilience Fund
A new kitchen at Heron Farm. (c) GRW Photography

East Devon District Council is urging local businesses to submit Expressions of Interest for the Innovation and Resilience Fund 3 (IRF3) before the deadline on 8 May 2024.

Councillor Matt Hall, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy, said:

“If you have a transformational idea to boost your productivity and grow your business, we could provide up to £30,000 of capital funding to deliver your project. It’s a great opportunity to purchase a specific piece of equipment to grow or diversify your local business in a sustainable way.

"We are looking for good quality projects to come forward. Applications will score more highly if they show genuine innovation with a clear description of how the proposed project will transform their business, create new, high-value employment or deliver new technologies or processes to increase productivity.“

All applications must be from businesses that primarily operate or trade in East Devon (excluding Exmouth). They can apply for between £3,000 and £30,000 of capital funding, which must be match funded by 30%. See examples of successful projects. 

Applications from Exmouth-based businesses are not eligible because IRF3 is funded by the DEFRA Rural England Prosperity Fund. 

Read about previous recipients and case studies, along with criteria and guidance to the scheme.  

All applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) before 8th May 2024.