New grant for businesses and community groups

Almost £900,000 in funding will be available for business and community projects in South Cambridgeshire thanks to a grant launched in the District today (April 9).

The Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) is designed to support local businesses for things like diversifying or creating jobs, plus a range of community initiatives such as rural travel, volunteering opportunities, digital projects or schemes that create a sense of local pride.

Among the people who can apply are micro to medium sized businesses, social enterprises, sole traders, charities, farmers, rural community groups and higher or further education institutions.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) is the lead authority for delivery of the Fund, while the District Council is responsible for grant scheme delivery and allocation. It is for capital projects only.

Anne Ainsworth, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “This is a new business and community grant to support development in rural communities. It is aimed at fostering economic vitality as well as supporting the growth of local heritage, cultural and social amenities for residents.”

Richard Kenney, Executive Director, Economy and Growth, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, said: “We are proud to launch the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) in South Cambridgeshire, a significant step towards bolstering our local businesses and community initiatives. With nearly £900,000 in funding available, this grant underscores our commitment to fostering economic growth and social progress in our rural communities. By supporting diverse projects ranging from job creation to enhancing local amenities, we aim to empower businesses and community groups to thrive and contribute to the prosperity of our region. This initiative aligns with our vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community. The Combined Authority is the ‘Lead Authority’ for managing the £3.2m Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) in partnership across the four rural Districts in Cambridgeshire, those being Fenland District Council, Huntingdonshire, East Cambridgeshire and South Cambridgeshire.”

South Cambridgeshire District Council has a grant funding allocation of £876,101 to spend between 2024 and 2025. This will be split between business and community interventions. Applicants can apply for between £10,000 to £100,000 of funding. 

The first application window for the fund will open from 9 April 2024 and will run each quarter until all the grant funds have been successfully allocated.

Eligible areas can be checked on the Magic Map. Some areas in the District are not eligible due to populations of more than 10,000 people and their proximity to the city centre. These include South Girton, Milton, Orchard Park, Kings Hedges, Fulbourn, Stapleford and Great Shelford. 

For full grant criteria and application please visit the South Cambridgeshire District Council webpage. Find out more by visiting the grant policy or email sharedprosperityfund@scambs.gov.uk.