Community groups across East Dunbartonshire can now apply for even more funding under the Council’s revised Community Grants Scheme.
The scheme, which aims to financially support local community and voluntary organisations with their activities, will have an increased budget for 2023/24.
This funding, a combination of money from the Council and the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, means grants ranging from £100 to £10,000 are now available to help groups bring their projects to life and make a real difference in their communities.
Local organisations can now apply for either a small (up to £5,000) or large (up to £10,000) grant and the Council welcomes applications from those that:
- Have a constitution
- Have a bank account
- Are not for profit
- Aim to bring benefits to the residents of East Dunbartonshire
The latest round of funding opens on Monday 26 June until Friday 28 July at 5pm.
Councillor Gordan Low, Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council said,
We believe in the power of our communities and the work done by local organisations. Through the Community Grant Scheme, we want to provide support to those who are making a positive difference in our communities. That’s why we are happy to announce that the revised Community Grants Scheme is now open and accepting applications.
“Whether it’s social inclusion, the environment, culture, or young people initiatives, we’re here to help.”
Previous recipients of the scheme include Brownies, Rainbows, Scouts, Girls' Brigade, Boys' Brigade, Girl Guides, hall associations, community councils, children's groups, pipe bands, hobby clubs and sports teams.
A recent consultation with local groups has also helped to shape the schemes’ processes with enhanced guidance and clearer application form.
Applying for the grant is simple. The application form, detailed guidance and eligibility criteria can be found on the Council website Community Grants Scheme webpage.
If any individual or group is not familiar with the grant application process and needs assistance, the Council’s Community Planning team can be contacted by emailing communityplanning@eastdunbarton.gov.uk or calling 0300 123 4510.
Councillor Low added, “The Community Grants Scheme has empowered hundreds of local people and groups over the years and we know that in the current climate - with rising costs and increased demand - it’s essential that extra funding is provided. That’s why in our Budget, announced in February, we decided to double the funding for the Scheme from £100,000 to £200,000 as part of our Cost-of-Living package. We hope this boosted budget will help to address poverty and inequalities in the area and make a significant difference in our communities.”
Along with the Council’s £200,000 allocation, the Community Grants Scheme also received £100,000 from the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund.
