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Rural economy

With just under a third of North Somerset's 201,400 population living in rural areas the rural economy plays a major role in the overall success of the local economy.

As a result, we are supporting the economic development of the rural economy through a number of initiatives to help and encourage new and existing rural business to grow and prosper.

The Taste of North Somerset is a partnership made up of local businesses, voluntary and public sector organisations with an interest in local food. The aim of the partnership is to establish and develop local food initiatives which contribute to improving the lives of people in North Somerset.

The partnership has initiated four Farmers' Markets, undertaken a survey of local producers, and developed a local food directory.

Rural Renaissance is a funding programme which supports businesses or people who live or work in rural areas to improve the local economy across the West of England. It is now in its final year of delivery.

The Village Shop Grant Scheme is open to both rural village and farm shops and is administered by Community Action.

Small employment sites are also located throughout rural areas with more planned for the future. To search for available rural employment units visit Invest West.

For more information on the rural economy please contact our Sustainability Service.

The North Somerset Enterprise Agency also has an experienced Rural Business Advisor. For further information please contact them on 01934 418 118.