The second round of the Rural England Prosperity Fund Grants has opened for businesses based in North Devon and Torridge District Council areas.
The grants available range from £2,500 up to a maximum of £35,000. They are aimed at small and micro businesses (up to 50 employees and a turnover of less than £10million).
The grant scheme is to provide funding to assist with the purchase of capital items* (e.g., equipment) that will help business to create jobs, introduce new technologies or net zero processes. You will need to provide match funding of 10-20% of the items to be purchased.
Eligible businesses can apply for grants for items that fit under one of the key investment priorities, which are:-
- Funding for net zero infrastructure and diversification of farm business outside of agriculture, e.g. energy saving equipment or items related to converting buildings to non-farming commercial uses
- Growing the local social economy and supporting innovation, please note this investment priority is only for community businesses or social enterprises
- Developing and promoting the visitor economy, e.g. capital investment to promote local trails and attractions.
The Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) grants are funded by both North Devon Council and Torridge District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKPSF).
For more information and how to apply, you can visit the North Devon+ site here: https://www.northdevonplus.co.uk/our-services/rural-england-prosperity-fund-repf-grant-programme
(please note that this grant programme will be open until 30.11.2024 or until all funds are allocated.)