Council launches £360k grant scheme for community projects

Chichester District Council has launched a grants scheme with more than £360,000 available for community projects. The scheme is aimed at community groups, local businesses, and parish councils. This funding, which is almost double the amount allocated in previous years, is intended to support initiatives that promote economic growth, improve places and spaces, or build stronger communities.

The council's grants programme has been running for nearly 10 years. Last year, it awarded 36 grants to various projects that positively impacted people's lives, fostered community spirit, and boosted the local economy across the district. The increased funding for the coming year means the council can help more groups, businesses, and parish councils deliver projects that will benefit communities now and in the future.



There are two types of grants available. Small grants of up to £2,000 can be applied for at any time, with decisions made within six weeks. Larger grants, typically up to £25,000, have 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 . The full details of the scheme, including grant eligibility, can also be found on this web page. Tracie Bangert, councillor responsible for communities and wellbeing at Chichester District Council, said: "We are really pleased to be able to offer this grant scheme once again, and we hope that by allocating significantly more funding this year, we will be able to support more projects that have a lasting impact on the local community.

"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.".