WHILE the supermarkets are currently in the spotlight over profits and practices, one major retailer is carrying on with its farmer grants program.
Coles has announced the opening of applications for Round 12 of the Coles Nurture Fund, with grants of up to $500,000 available to fuel projects that drive innovation, sustainability and growth.
The Coles Nurture Fund aims to help Aussie growers and suppliers develop products, technologies, systems and processes.
It has awarded more than $33 million in financial support to more than 100 businesses from across the country since 2015.
In 2021, Newton Orchards in Manjimup, Western Australia, received a $250,000 grant to fix permanent netting over one of its flagship orchards to protect it from cockatoo attacks and outdoor elements.
The apple company has been supplying Coles for nearly 35 years with several orchards throughout the region.
Newton Orchards director, Nicole Giblet, said the netting has made a huge difference to the business, including the reduction of water used to irrigate the orchards by 30 per cent within one season.
"As a result of the nets, we have seen beautiful growth and clean, premium-quality fruit with very little bird damage," Ms Giblet said.
"Importantly, the nets will last the lifetime of the trees and the structure will last even longer.
"In this heating and drying climate, it's unworkable and untenable to grow top-grade fruit without netting.
"We also invested $10,000 of the grant into habitat restoration for the cockatoo - funding seedling purchase and helping plant appropriate native trees that provide a new place for them to live and eat, well away from agricultural areas.
"The Nurture Fund is a wonderful initiative by Coles and I'd encourage other suppliers with an idea to make their business more sustainable to apply."
Coles executive general manager fresh Andy Mossop said he had seen firsthand the impact of the Coles Nurture Fund on small and medium-sized businesses, and encouraged others to apply for the grant ahead of the deadline this Friday, February 23.
"We understand the vital role Aussie growers and suppliers play in providing fresh and quality food to our customers, and through the Coles Nurture Fund, we are not only investing in projects that drive innovation but also ensuring that our partners have the support they need to thrive," Ms Mossop said.
"Strong relationships are the backbone of our supply chain. By providing financial support to projects that align with our values, we are not just helping businesses; we are investing in the future of Australian agriculture."
To be eligible, businesses must demonstrate their need for funding in a project that drives innovation and provides outstanding sustainability benefits.
Businesses that generate less than $25 million in annual revenue and employ 50 or fewer full-time employees are encouraged to apply.
Applications close 5pm AEDT, Friday, February 23.
- To apply for Round 12 of the Coles Nurture Fund, click HERE.
