Growth Through Certification for Horsham-Based Food & Drink Producers

We’re excited to introduce a new funding opportunity for Horsham-based small food and drink businesses and open doors to new markets through the ‘Horsham District Support from the Start’ program, delivered by SALSA in collaboration with Horsham District Council and funded by the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund.

Opportunity
Third-party certification can be a key factor for smaller producers in accessing larger market opportunities. Achieving SALSA Approval helps businesses demonstrate their commitment to high food safety standards, making it easier to gain the trust of new customers.

Background
Written by experienced food safety experts, SALSA is a robust and effective food safety certification scheme appropriate for SME food and drink producers and suppliers. SALSA Approved members operate to a food safety standard that is recognised and accepted across the industry and exceeds the minimum standards expected by enforcement authorities.

Program
Ten eligible businesses will have the opportunity to work closely with a SALSA Mentor to prepare for SALSA Approval. Throughout this 12-month program, they will benefit from both one-on-one support and group training opportunities, including:

• SALSA Membership (12 months), including access to SALSA's Self-Assessment Questionnaire, Interpretation Guide, Glossary and Tools & Tips
• Welcome and Induction Webinar
• SALSA Directory Listing
• Monthly Newsletter
• HACCP Training
• Food Labelling Workshop
• Two Mentoring Visits to undertake the SALSA Standard Gap Analysis and create an Action Plan for Approval
• Closing Review

“Supporting local food and drink producers is essential to our community’s economic growth, we are thrilled to partner in this initiative that not only elevates our local businesses but helps them meet vital safety standards, paving the way for expanded market reach and success.” Cllr Tony Hogben, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Horsham District

Eligibility
Small food and drink businesses that are:

• Based in Horsham
• Meet SME criteria
• Operate from commercial premises

Applications
The ‘Support from the Start’ program is free. Successful applicants are expected to purchase a SALSA Audit (at a reduced price) within three months of the program finishing.
This fully funded program, which will run for 12 months, is limited to ten businesses. By the end, we aim to help each participant build the confidence needed to apply for SALSA Approval.
For more details or to express your interest, please contact catrinhughes@salsafood.co.uk

Note: The SALSA ‘Horsham District Support from the Start’ scheme is delivered by SALSA Technologies Ltd, in collaboration with Horsham District Council and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund