New Start Highland has been announced as the official charity partner of the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards (HIFADA) 2026, which will take place on 7 May at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness.

The 2026 finalists will be announced in April. This year marks 20 years of celebrating excellence in one of Scotland’s most internationally respected food and drink regions. With the awards now hosted by Highland CIC, this milestone year also signals a renewed, future-focused commitment to future focused sustainable development at a time of transformational change across the Highlands.

For two decades, the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards have shone a spotlight on world-class whisky, seafood, venison, beef and lamb, cheeses, and a vibrant community of artisan producers. In 2026, the Awards will continue that legacy while recognising the sector’s vital role in shaping a globally recognised, sustainable Highland economy – one that safeguards cultural heritage, supports rural communities and delivers environmental leadership alongside commercial success.

James Dunbar, chief executive of New Start Highland, said: “It’s an honour to be named the charity partner of the Highland Food and Drink Awards for 2026. While this event celebrates the very best of the industry, it also offers an opportunity to reflect on the growing recognition of challenges faced by many people across our communities.”

“At New Start Highland, we see the scale of poverty every day through our Foodbank, and how important access to good, nutritious food is for those who are struggling. It’s incredibly encouraging to see the food and drink sector not only showcasing quality and creativity, but also recognising its role in supporting local people and contributing to more sustainable, inclusive communities.”

Willie Cameron, a member of the HIFADA Steering Group and Board Director of Highland CIC, added: “Partnerships like this help us continue to create positive change in people’s lives, at a time they need it most. Supporting New Start Highland, including their work through the foodbank, is a meaningful way for us to give something back to our communities. We’re pleased that fundraising on the night will contribute to that vital work, and we look forward to playing a small part in the positive difference they make across the region.”

The Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards 2026 promise to be a landmark celebration of the region’s outstanding produce, people and progress, while also raising vital funds to support New Start Highland’s ongoing work.

Find more information on HIFAD 2026 and buy tickets to the awards ceremony and gala dinner on Thursday, 7 May at the Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness here: https://highlandfoodanddrink.org/hifada2026