RURAL businesses and communities in Droitwich will be able to get their hands on a slice of a more than £1million fund.
The Wychavon Rural Fund has been launched by the district council and will be released in stages over the next two years, with the first round of cash available to bid for now.
The money will be available to companies, charities, community groups, town and parish councils and other organisations.
New rural small or micro businesses will be able to bid for a share of £420,000.
The remaining £670,000 will be available to support rural communities with projects such as community energy schemes, improving local green spaces, upgrading walking and cycling routes and cultural or heritage projects.
People will be able to bid for grants of between £2,500 and £25,000, but businesses will be expected to match 50 per cent of the total cost of a project and other organisations 30 per cent.
The cash can only be used to fund physical projects such as new buildings or renovations and not for staff or day-to-day running costs.
Wychavon District Council leader Coun Bradley Thomas said: “If you can see an opportunity to start a new business or have a great idea to improve the life of your community then please bid for this money.
“It’s part of our commitment to supporting the growth of all parts of our local economy, not just in the towns, and further enhancing our rural communities so they can continue to thrive.”
Expressions of interest must be submitted through the council’s website using the online form by August 14, after which shortlisted bids will be invited to work on a full application.
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/rural-fund for more information about the criteria and to access the online application form.
