Organisations set to benefit from £360,000 grants scheme

Community groups, local businesses and parish councils are set to benefit from an enhanced grants scheme, which has been launched by Chichester District Council and aims to support projects that drive economic growth, improve places and spaces, or build stronger communities.

Over £360,000 has been made available for the year ahead, which is almost twice the amount allocated through the scheme in previous years.

Last year, the council’s grants programme — which has been running for nearly ten years — awarded 36 grants to help deliver a range of initiatives that make a difference to people’s lives, bring communities together, and boost the local economy across the Chichester District.

With almost double the funding available for the coming year, the enhanced grant scheme will mean that the council can support more groups, businesses and parish councils to deliver projects that will benefit communities, now and in the future.

There are two types of grants available.

Small Grants are up to £2,000 and can be applied for at any time with decisions made within six weeks. Larger Grants are typically up to £25,000, with four opportunities to apply throughout the year.

Interested groups need to consult with a Funding Adviser before applying by completing an enquiry form at: www.chichester.gov.uk/grants.

Councillor Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing at Chichester District Council, said:

“We know how grants such as this can make a big difference, whether they are used to deliver projects that support our communities or help to boost the local economy.

"In recent years, we’ve been delighted to be able to issue grants that have helped to deliver new inclusive play equipment; make environmental improvements to village halls; create rewilding projects; and provide new equipment for sports clubs.

“If you are a local business or community group that is interested in finding out more about our grant scheme, or if you would like to speak to one of our advisers, please visit: www.chichester.gov.uk/grants”