Funding of £350,376 is available for business and community projects in South Cambridgeshire thanks to a grant scheme launched today (July 24).
The Rural England Prosperity Fund is into its second year and can provide grants for capital projects. Funds will be split between business and community schemes.
For businesses it can provide support with funding for small scale micro and small enterprises for diversification, entrepreneurs looking to start up or scale up, and growing the local social economy by supporting innovation.
For communities, it will support projects related to digital infrastructure, green spaces, heritage, active travel, rural circular economy, volunteering and capacity building.
Last year’s scheme saw 26 local projects receive financial support for a diverse range of projects ranging from developing Over skate park, refurbishment of the Impington Sports Centre tennis and netball courts, a new website for the Denny Abbey and Farmland Museum, and a new kitchen for Harston village hall.
Cllr Peter McDonald, Lead Cabinet Member for Economic Development for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We’re delighted to announce another year of being able to offer this funding, which continues to support the innovation, resilience and community spirit that define South Cambridgeshire. Whether it’s helping a local business grow or backing a community project that brings people together, this funding is about investing in the future of our rural areas. I encourage all eligible groups to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to make a real difference.”
The Rural England Prosperity Fund has a total of £350,376 aimed at supporting rural areas by boosting the local economy. The funds are provided by government and administered by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA).
Applicants can apply from between £10,000 up to £50,000 each for local businesses to diversify or create jobs. Funds can also support a range of community initiatives such as rural travel, volunteering opportunities, digital projects or schemes that create a sense of local pride. Find out more here.
Applicants must either be micro to medium sized businesses, social enterprises, sole traders, charities, farmers, rural community groups and higher or further education institutions.
Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, said: “This is money on the table right now to support rural communities, and I want to see every pound making a difference. Whether it’s helping a small business grow, improving community facilities, or supporting rural jobs and pride in place, this funding can deliver real impact. I urge local organisations to get their bids in and take advantage of this opportunity to invest in their area.”
- The application window for the fund opens on July 24 and runs until 24 August.
· For full grant criteria and application form please visit the South Cambridgeshire District Council Rural England Prosperity Fund webpage or email sharedprosperityfund@scambs.gov.uk
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