Bass Liberal MHR Andrew Nikolic said that the fund had made grants to local businesses worth $600,000.

Little Rivers Brewing and pork producer Cuckoo Valley were recognised for their job creation and the economic potential of their enterprises.

Mr Nikolic said that the two businesses were investing $1.45 million in the north-east.

``Cuckoo Valley is investing $1.1 million to expand its piggery infrastructure and build a new meat packing section,'' he said.

``The company has won $453,788 in funding towards this expansion, which will create an estimated 11 jobs.

``The new buildings and extensions to existing buildings include the construction of a new 15m x 18m value-add meat packing, freezer, chiller and office facility.

``I congratulate managing director Roger Unwin and the staff of Cuckoo Valley for so confidently investing in the future of north-eastern Tasmania.

``Little Rivers Brewing won a grant of $150,000 towards a total investment of $350,000 to upgrade equipment, infrastructure and cellar door tasting and sales facilities.

``Chris Carins started producing craft beers at the Little Rivers Brewing Company in Scottsdale in February last year and had seen his operation grow to the point where a major capital investment was needed.

``He will upgrade his brewing equipment and expand the cellar door tasting and sales area with the creation of an estimated 3.5 jobs.''

Mr Nikolic said that grants were awarded through a competitive, merit-based process and businesses had to provide at least half the total investment cost.