A new grant scheme, designed with help from the voluntary sector, to effectively meet local communities’ needs, will fund small community projects across East Devon, and community buildings in rural areas.
The fund was given the go-ahead at East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) Cabinet meeting this week, and the opening date for the first window of applications will be announced soon.
£204,000 of funding has been allocated for grants, half for the upcoming 2025/2026 round, and the remainder for 2026/2027. £300 - £1,500 will be available for small community grants and £500 - £10,000 available for community buildings. This funding comes from a combination of the Community Buildings Grant, Small Community Grants, and the East Devon Action on Poverty Fund.
EDDC regularly hear from voluntary groups who are interested in much-needed grant funding. High volumes of interest for the Community Grant Fund are anticipated, so the application window may close early.
Earlier this year, the council hosted a thank you event celebrating the valuable work that the voluntary sector plays to help support residents who are facing financial hardship. Key areas of discussion included the pressures that local groups face, and how they can secure the funding that they need.
More information about the Community Grants Fund will soon be available on the council website.

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