The South Oxfordshire District Council has announced the opening of several community grant schemes for the 2024/25 funding cycle. These grants provide vital support to local organisations, helping them to carry out projects and initiatives that benefit the residents of South Oxfordshire. Here’s a look at the open grant schemes and how they aim to support community development, environmental sustainability, and well-being.
1. Councillor Community Grant Scheme
The Councillor Community Grant Scheme is now open for applications, providing an excellent opportunity for community projects to receive funding. Each South Oxfordshire district councillor has a budget of £5,000 to allocate to projects or services that offer significant community benefits within their ward areas.
Key Details:
- Application Deadline: Midday on Friday, 29 November 2024.
- Funding Focus: Projects that have a substantial impact on residents, including those that:
- Protect and restore the natural world.
- Promote action on climate emergencies.
- Improve economic and community well-being.
This grant is ideal for organisations looking to fund small capital projects or one-off revenue projects that provide clear benefits to their local communities. The scheme encourages applications from initiatives that align with the council’s goals of sustainability and community enhancement.
2. Revenue Grant Scheme 2025-2027
The Revenue Grant Scheme for 2025-2027 is open for applications from voluntary sector organisations seeking core revenue funding. This scheme supports organisations that deliver essential services and activities, directly benefiting South Oxfordshire residents by meeting a clearly identified need.
Key Details:
- Application Deadline: Midday on Friday, 1 November 2024.
- Funding Focus: The scheme favours organisations that:
- Are exploring partnerships or joint working with other voluntary organisations, businesses, or the public sector.
- Are implementing methods to enhance financial sustainability.
- Aim to have a greater impact on the communities they serve.
This grant is an excellent opportunity for voluntary organisations to secure funding that will help them continue to provide vital services, particularly those with a strategy for long-term sustainability and collaborative impact.
3. Fund for Nature Recovery Projects
With a growing focus on environmental sustainability, the Fund for Nature Recovery Projects offers financial support to community projects that aim to increase biodiversity and encourage public access to green spaces in the district.
Key Details:
- Funding Available: £50,000 for community nature recovery projects.
- Funding Focus: Projects that contribute to:
- Biodiversity enhancement.
- Increased public engagement with green spaces.
This fund supports projects that not only enhance the natural environment but also foster a sense of community involvement in protecting and restoring South Oxfordshire’s green spaces.
4. Smokefree Oxon Community Fund
In collaboration with Oxfordshire County Council’s Public Health team, the Smokefree Oxon Community Fund is available to voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations interested in creating smoke-free spaces or holding smoke-free events.
Key Details:
- Funding Range: Between £150 and £1,000.
- Application Process: Email smokefreeoxon@oxfordshire.gov.uk to begin the application process.
This initiative aims to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce smoking rates by supporting local projects that encourage smoke-free environments.
How to Apply and More Information
If your organisation or community group is looking for funding opportunities to support your initiatives in South Oxfordshire, these grants offer valuable support to help turn your ideas into reality. For detailed information on each scheme, eligibility criteria, and application guidance, visit the South Oxfordshire District Council’s website or contact the Community Enablement Team at grants@southandvale.gov.uk or call 01235 422405.
These open grant schemes reflect the Council’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community for all South Oxfordshire residents. Don’t miss the opportunity to apply and make a difference in your community today!