Voluntary and community sector organisations who work to benefit communities across the area are being encouraged to apply for grants from Harrogate Borough Council.
The council’s Strategic Grant Fund is one of the largest allocations the council makes, with over £174,000 available to support the costs of voluntary and community sector partners working with the council to provide essential services across the district.
The annual grants are awarded to organisations working in areas that reflect Harrogate Borough Council’s strategic priorities. These include working towards a strong local economy, a sustainable environment and supporting local communities.
The grants are split into three different areas of work:
- Voluntary and community sector support
- advice services
- strategic support services
The fund is now open for applications for funding which would begin on 1 April 2016, subject to the council’s approval.
Councillor Michael Harrison is the Deputy Leader of Harrogate Borough Council. He said:
We have always worked closely with the voluntary and community sector and recognise the contribution it makes both in maintaining and improving the quality of life of communities in Harrogate district.
The sector has a good track record in the planning and delivery of services for the local community, and there have been a number of successful partnerships with the council. We are keen for this strong relationship to continue.
We will be looking to ensure that the funds are distributed fairly across the district and that the organisations we support financially cover a cross section of the local community.
Any organisation interested in applying can get guidance documents, details of how the funds will be allocated and the eligibility and scoring criteria, along with the application form itself at www.harrogate.gov.uk/communitygrants
The closing date for applications is midday on 14 October 2015.
All application forms must be submitted electronically.