Borough council in Derbyshire launches Members’ Community Grants Scheme to boost local projects
Amber Valley Borough Council in east Derbyshire is launching a new community grants scheme to find individuals and groups who make a positive difference to their neighbourhoods.
Photo by micheile henderson via UnSplash
From April 2025, each borough councillor will be able to award up to £500 per year in small grants, with individual grants available of up to £100. The idea is that councillors will be able to provide quick, targeted support for worthwhile initiatives, without the time and hassle of filling out sizeable funding applications.
The borough council offers some examples of the kinds of initiative that could benefit, such as a volunteer group seeking to buy equipment, funding for a small community event or support for a project that brings people together.
To be eligible for a grant, the project or activity must take place within Amber Valley and be of benefit to the local community. If successful, funding should be spent within three months of receipt unless agreed otherwise. Where possible, applicants are encouraged to use local suppliers.
Interested parties – whether community groups or individuals – should contact their local councillor for more information on how to apply.
The Members’ Community Grants scheme will run over the next two financial years, from April 2025 to March 2027.
Cllr Chris Emmas-Williams, Leader of Amber Valley Borough Council, says: ‘This scheme is a fantastic way for our councillors to connect with their communities and help get small but meaningful projects off the ground. Often, it’s these modest amounts of funding that can make the biggest difference. I’m really looking forward to seeing the ideas that come forward and working with our members to support them.’
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