Applications for grants from West Sussex County Council’s Social Enterprise Fund have opened for this year, with an opportunity for individuals, community or voluntary groups, and social enterprises to bid on more than £250,000 in available funds.
West Sussex County Council provides infrastructure support for startup or existing social enterprises that wish to grow. A social enterprise describes a business model where profit is reinvested mainly to fulfill social objectives or grow the business, rather than maximize profit for shareholders and owners.
Applicable projects for the grants include those that meet health and wellbeing targets, or help local communities take a more active role in running services.
The deadline for the return of completed applications is midnight on July 30. Winners will be announced in October followed by an award ceremony in December. Bids for more than £30,000 will be considered, but will be supported only in exceptional circumstances.
One successful bid last year came from the YMCA, which was awarded £15,000 to expand its painting and decorating social enterprise to provide support, employment, and training for vulnerable and unemployed youths aged 14-25.
Applicants have the option to attend free half-day morning workshops for assistance at Crawley Library on May 22, Field Place in Worthing on May 25, Billingshurst Community and Conference Centre on May 28, and University of Chichester on May 31.
On June 26 and June 29, there will also be two free full-day workshops to assist people on developing ideas, business plans, and a budget.
“The Social Enterprise Fund is an important part of our strategy to improve the economy, community and environment of West Sussex,” said Michael Brown, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources.
“We want to see a variety of entries, and would encourage anyone interested to attend the workshops to find out more.”
“Experts from the West Sussex Social Enterprise Network and the local Council for Voluntary Service will be there to answer questions and provide guidance.”
People are being asked to email [email protected] with contact details to indicate which workshop they wish to attend.