GRANTS of between £7,500 and £25,000 are on offer to groups and businesses in rural communities in North Somerset.
Launched today (June 16) through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), funding is available for capital projects only – meaning lasting assets such as a building or equipment.
The grants are available to those facing challenging circumstances in rural areas, which includes limited access to services, lower productivity, and poor connectivity, and aims to help such communities thrive.
Applications for REPF grants are open until noon on Friday, August 1.
A team at North Somerset Council is available to answer questions via email at business@n-somerset.gov.uk (include REPF in the subject line of your email).
The fund offers two types of grants: one for rural businesses, and one for community organisations.
Business applicants need to be a micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise with fewer than 250 employees.
Eligible business types include sole traders, limited companies, partnerships, community interest companies, co-ops, and more.
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Community organisations like charities, town and parish councils, and charitable community benefit societies can also apply.
Previous grant recipients Hamilton & Hodson Traditional Upholstery, in Long Ashton, who used their funding to convert an old pigsty into a space featuring a workshop, fabric showroom, teaching area, and reception.
The transformation has allowed them to expand leisure courses and attract creative providers to the area, boosting both skills and the local economy.
Uncle Paul’s Chilli Charity, a rural organisation dedicated to education, wellbeing, and social prescribing, used their grant to build a fully equipped wood workshop.
It now supports more than 120 people each week, including young people and adults facing disadvantage.
Cllr Mark Canniford, cabinet member for the economy at North Somerset Council, said: “REPF is making a real difference in our communities, helping businesses and charities grow, become more sustainable, and offer more to the people they support.
“From expanding training opportunities to creating welcoming community spaces, this funding is unlocking potential across North Somerset. I strongly encourage local organisations to apply and make the most of this opportunity.”
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