£25,000 in grant funding available for rural projects from The Royal Countryside Fund
Rural community organisations are being invited to apply for grants of up to £25,000 from The Royal Countryside Fund in the autumn round of their Supporting Rural Communities programme.
Maddy Taylor, Head of Operations at The Royal Countryside Fund said: “We are really keen to hear from people whose community projects are responding to specific needs in their village or town, to tackle problems such as isolation, lack of access to services, training, or employment, or that are improving the sustainability and resilience of countryside communities.
“We want to hear how your project is responding to demand from people in your area, and how it will make a real difference to improve the lives of people living in your local community.”
The Royal Countryside Fund has up to £250,000 available for not-for-profit rural organisations in this funding round, which opens today, and is looking to fund projects in Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England.
Groups who are interested in applying should read the FAQs and advice documents on The Royal Countryside Fund’s website and then fill in a short application form before midday on Friday, October 20.
The Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust in Scotland were awarded £25,000 to fund a Tree Nursery manager post, helping build Eigg's circular economy to deliver economic, environmental, and social impact.
Rebecca Long, IEHT Development Manager said: “Since its establishment in 2017, Eigg Tree Nursery has quickly grown to become an important asset to our island community.
"The RCF funding will enable Eigg’s Tree Nursery to become a self-sustaining community enterprise. Supporting local enterprise and employment, the Tree Nursery helps sustain native species, producing and protecting much more biodiverse woodlands and habitats.
"This helps protect Eigg’s future ecology and expands the island’s circular economy, all while we work towards carbon net zero. The funding to support a paid position as Tree Nursery manager in these early years will secure the long-term future of the enterprise as it develops income streams on and off the island.”
Keith Halstead, Executive Director of The Royal Countryside Fund said: “The RCF’s grant programme enables rural communities to become more self-sufficient by funding community-led solutions.
"With thanks to Waitrose and players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the RCF aims to invest at least £500,000 each year through our rural grant programmes to make projects happen, particularly in hamlets, villages, and small towns.”
If you are unsure whether you meet the eligibility criteria or would like to discuss your project, please complete the online Expression of Interest form on the website and a member of the team will be in touch.
Examples of the types of projects we like to support can be found in The Village Survival Guide or on the website.
Applications for grants close on Friday 20th October 2023 at midday.
Founded by HM King Charles III in 2010 while he was The Prince of Wales, The Royal Countryside Fund is the only UK-wide charity focused on the unique issues facing farming and rural communities.
