Wexford entrepreneurs call on local food and drink companies to consider Food Works programme

Food Works, Ireland’s leading investment accelerator programme for high-potential food and drink companies, is seeking applications from Wexford food and drink companies for its 2025 line-up….

Combining the resources of Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, Food Works has been a fundamental driver of innovation in the food sector in the last decade. Wexford’s ELEMENT Irish Whiskey and Mór Taste jams and spreads are two of nine companies taking part in this years programme and the company founders would encourage local companies to consider taking part.

ELEMENT Irish Whiskey

ELEMENT Irish whiskey began its journey over a decade ago with the vision to build Wexford’s first whiskey distillery, but soon realised it would be important to develop a brand and product first. Co-founder Fionn Cox joined the comapny during his studies at University College Cork (BSc in Food Marketing Entrepreneurship).

Inspired by the incredible growth of Irish whiskey in West Africa, where Fionn previously worked for Jameson, the duo set out to create a brand that would stand out. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, ELEMENT Irish Whiskey is Origin Green Certified, reflecting their dedication to environmentally responsible practices.

Co-founder of ELEMENT Irish Whiskey, Fionn Cox told Wexford Weekly that:

“Food Works have been a fantastic experience. I think it’s amazing to obtain the kind of the learnings, feedback and the insights from all the experienced people on the on the programme. It’s also fantastic to work with the people from Bord Bia, Teagasc, and Enterprise Ireland. I think it was very interesting to meet the other people, the other kind of participants on the programme across all different innovative food and drinks businesses. To know you are not alone as an entrepreneur in the industry”

Mór Taste

Mór Taste was born out of a desire for healthier, tastier food options. Founded by Felix Oster in 2023, the company has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to jams, spreads and preserves. With a background working in the food industry for many years, Felix had grown frustrated at the prevalence of ultra-processed foods and recognised the need for healthier product alternatives that didn’t compromise on taste.

Due to personal health issues, the drive to find low-sugar and healthier alternatives was also of particular interest. Originally from Germany, Felix moved to Ireland with his wife in 2019, first living in Dublin before moving to Wexford where they have called home since 2020.

Mór Taste offers a range of award-winning jams (Blás na hÉirinn) and chocolate spreads, all crafted with real fruit, nuts, and a touch of natural sweetness. Unlike many competitors that rely on artificial sweeteners or excessive sugar, Mór Taste products provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavour. With up to 74% less sugar than traditional options, these treats are perfect for those seeking to reduce their sugar intake without compromising on indulgence

Food Works 2025

Food Works runs annually from February to November. Participating start-ups take part in workshops with national and international industry experts across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, 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 may have the opportunity to receive 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.

The closing date for applications for the 2025 programme is 29th November 2024. Full details and an application form are available at FoodWorksIreland.ie