Funding update...

We hope you are keeping warm in this snowy weather. Whether you are stuck at home or managing to battle on, you may find this post of interest...

O2 Think Big

Individuals or groups between the ages of 13 and 25 can apply for and run a project to make changes to their communities.

Applicants can do everything or anything – in fact the more bold and creative the ideas, the better.  Projects must be up and running within three months of applying and finish within six months (extensions can be granted in certain circumstances).

Once in the programme, the following support is available:

• £300 cash for the project 
• Training and support  
• A Think Big merchandise pack  
• Communications tools 
• Support from the team of O2 helpers
• Projects that are invited to be taken further could get the following:
• Up to £2,500 cash for the project (given in stages)
• Free O2 broadband for a year 
• Support from O2 mentor  
• The chance to win gig tickets and merchandise for the project group
•  The opportunity to progress on to the Alumni programme

Applications can be submitted at any time, and the decision panel sits monthly. More information here.

Sport England Small Grants Programme 

Grants ranging from £300 - £10,000 are available for local sports clubs, non-for-profit groups, statutory organisations and educational institutions to carry out projects that

• Increase or sustain local participation in sporting activities
• Develop opportunities for people to excel at their chosen sport

Applications for sporting activities costs are welcomed, such as for:

• Purchasing new kit or equipment
• Coaching fees
• Helping youth groups to work together with local sports clubs

Sport England’s strategy for 2012-17 is focused on:

• An increase in the proportion of 14-25’s playing sport once a week.
• A growth in regular (once a week) participation for all those aged 14+
• A reduction in drop off at ages 16, 18, 21 and 24
• Growth in participation by people with a disability

Small grants will not fund projects that do not impact on this strategy.

Applications can be made at any time online at the Sport England funding portal. Decisions will be made within six weeks of application. More information here.

Big Lottery Fund Awards for All

Financial assistance is available for voluntary groups, schools, local authorities and health bodies in England to carry out projects that will improve their local community.

Grants of £300 - £10,000 are available.

Awards for All is a small grants programme provided by the Big Lottery Fund with the aim of funding projects that will improve the quality of life for local communities.

Grants are available for voluntary and community groups, charities, not-for-profit organisations, and statutory bodies, including schools and town councils, to carry out projects. Applications may be submitted at any time. More informaiton here.

Please get in touch with us if you have any questions.