Wednesday July 10th 2024
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A funding bonanza has been launched with the specific aim of improving the lives of people in the Borders.
Two new funds have just been unveiled by the Scottish Borders Local Action Group (LAG).
This group is made up of local people and local organisations from the private, public and third sectors dedicated to try and improve outcomes for Borders residents.
Grants of up to £20,000 will be made available.
Hans Waltl, chair of the LAG, said “Last year we gave out over £350,000 to nearly 50 community organisations, voluntary groups and young people across the Borders.
“This year, the LAG has created a second fund open to enterprises as well as this year’s version of the community’s fund. We look forward to receiving and funding many great ideas again this year that benefit the Borders.”
All grants must be spent by February 28, 2025. Both grant schemes are anticipated to have no more than three funding rounds with closing dates of Wednesday, August 14, Wednesday. September 4 and Wednesday, September 24.
This year’s Community Led Local Development (CLLD) fund offers grants of £1,500-£20,000 for projects that are centred around tackling at least one of the following themes – the Net-Zero/Climate Crisis; Social Inclusion/ Improving Services for the Public and Poverty Alleviation (especially for children).
This year the LAG is also offering a Growing the Local Economy Fund which is open to small/micro businesses, private sector or enterprise organisations.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available (more potentially for schemes deemed great ideas) but do not cover staff costs. Any business idea will be considered but it must contribute to one of the three priority themes.
The LAG is working in partnership with Scottish Borders Council to deliver the grants and will be using the council’s expression of interest form.
The expression of interest form can be accessed on the SBC website at HERE.
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