Small Grant Scheme

Do you have a bright idea that can help sustain our rural communities?

Do you have a bright idea that can help sustain our rural communities?

Applications for grants are being invited now for projects within Powys which will promote social inclusion, reduce poverty, and help develop and sustain our rural village communities. Funding of up to £7,000 is available to support 10 projects through Arwain, the county’s LEADER programme, which aims to get residents, businesses and communities involved in delivering innovative solutions to address economic, social and environmental challenges.* The types of projects that may be funded include pilot projects - small scale and time limited activities aimed at testing out a concept or to try an innovative technique; feasibility studies to undertake research into a specific issue or problem; and facilitation and mentoring support to organisations and groups to help develop skills and expertise. Although anyone can apply, applications from small community groups and organisations with turnovers of less than £100,000 per annum are welcomed and from applicants that have not received any funding from Arwain to date. There are bonus points available in relation to this within the scoring process. Bonus points are also available for projects that aid recovery after COVID-19. Cllr Iain McIntosh, Powys County Council’s (PCC) Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration, Planning and Housing, said: “The Arwain Programme aims to use innovative methods to assist communities in addressing the need in their areas by developing basic services, creating sustainable, resilient villages and improving the local environment. It can also support projects that cooperate with other geographical areas. “If you have an innovative idea to address any of the above themes, please put in an application via the Arwain website or contact the Rural Development Programme (RDP) team at the council.” Project ideas are welcomed which will fit into one or more of the following themes: • Adding value to local identity and natural and cultural resources • Facilitating pre-commercial development, business partnerships and short supply chains • Exploring new ways of providing non-statutory local services • Renewable energy at community level • Exploitation of digital technology This fund is for revenue costs only. LEADER can fund up to 80% of the overall cost of your project, but this is capped at £7,000. However, if you have a larger project in mind, please speak to a member of the RDP Team. The deadline for applications is midnight on 5 December 2021 and any funding received must be spent by 15 April 2022. To apply visit the Arwain website: www.arwain.wales For further information please contact the RDP Team by email: rdp@powys.gov.uk or call: 01597 827378.