Rural businesses and organisations are being invited to apply for grants to help them to become greener.
A new scheme aimed at boosting the rural economy has been launched by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and will run until March 2025.
The initiative has been made possible thanks to £400,000 of funds from the Rural England Prosperity Fund.
Those eligible for the grant include businesses and local organisations that invest in green technologies, as well as those that increase productivity; protect and improve local historic buildings, venues and cultural offerings; provide diversification outside of agriculture and develop local tourism attractions.
Applications are especially encouraged from those who would like to install low and zero carbon-generating technologies, or measures to improve energy efficiency.
There are a range of grants available, with funds from £7,500 to £22,500. The grants also have an intervention rate of 75%, meaning businesses and organisations need only find a minimum 25% of the total eligible project costs to apply.
With a pool of £100,000 available in Year 1 (2023/24) and £300,000 in Year 2 (2024/25), the council is expecting high interest and applications will be treated on a first-come first-served basis.
The fund is open to applications for Year 1 and 2, although applications for Year 2 must be projects that will not commence prior to 1st April 2024.
Executive Member for Rural Affairs at the Borough Council, Councillor Martin Cartwright said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer these grants to support our rural communities and businesses, helping them to thrive especially given the challenging and difficult circumstances over the recent years.
“Due to the amount on offer, we are expecting these grants to be very competitive, so please apply straight away if you think you’ll be eligible. Our thanks to the Rural England Prosperity Fund for helping to make this possible. Good luck with your applications.”
The closing date for the first round of funding is midday on Wednesday 29 November 2023.
