Prince’s Countryside Fund opens

Applications open on 30 April for community groups and charities to apply for grant funding of up to £50,000 from The Prince’s Countryside Fund, until 14 June.

The Fund is committed to supporting projects which will reinvigorate and sustain community networks, by providing services and amenities.

Claire Saunders, Director of the Fund said, “This is a critical time for people and businesses in our rural areas, and we are seeking applicants for our grant programme who can help to ensure that their rural communities can thrive now and in the future.

“We want to hear from innovative and creative community led projects that are responding to local needs and would urge people to consider applying. Whether this is bringing new life to your village shop and pub, increasing access to rural employment and training, or bringing together farming communities, we would love to hear from you.”

Funding is also available for projects that will improve the prospects of viability for family farm businesses, for example by providing training or education schemes.

The Fund’s grant giving helps to support a diverse range of projects, often delivered locally by grassroots organisations and community groups, and since the Fund was set up by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2010 it has distributed more than £9 million to communities across the UK.

The Fund is particularly keen to receive applications from Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Grant applications can be made from 30 April  to 14 June and to find out more read the full eligibility and guidance document at www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/grants