UCD and Teagasc to partner for agri innovation training [Video]

The government has announced €7m in funding over the next six years to UCD to develop a new food & agriculture innovation and entrepreneurship training programme, in partnership with Teagasc.

The Food and Agriculture Sustainable Technology Innovation Programme (FAST-IP) aims to develop innovation knowledge within the food and agriculture industry, with the hopes of creating more high potential start-ups and jobs in the sector.

The in-person programme runs for 12 months in duration and is aimed at mid-career professionals. Each of its 15 participants will receive a graduate diploma in agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship, a Level 9 on the National Qualifications Framework.

Participants will receive a €38,000 tax-free stipend for the duration of the course, which will focus on a combination of methodological and practical approaches, with participants spending eight weeks immersed in agricultural environments, including farms and food processing companies.

Minister Simon Coveneycommented: “Ireland’s Sustainable Food and AgTech industry is already a success and nationally important, contributing an estimated €8bn …