Central Scotland Green Network has launched the Community Project Fund 2017 to support community projects working to improve their local greenspace. Deadline for applications is 1st May.
The £40,000 Community Project Fund – supported by £30,000 funding from the Greggs Foundation and £10,000 from Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT) – will provide one-off grants of up to £1,000 to support small-scale greenspace initiatives and to foster community engagement in maintaining and enhancing the local environment.
The fund aims to increase community use of local greenspace, particularly within disadvantaged communities, which will have a positive impact on the quality of life for local residents.
At least 40 grass-roots projects will receive funding through the initiative and these can range from conservation and educational schemes, such as developing a safe natural learning space for children, community gardens for local groups to tend, and biodiversity activities such as planting and improvements to ponds and wetlands to protect local wildlife.
Woodland arts activities and feasibility projects can also apply for the funding, as well as any other new and innovative ideas which engage local communities.
Keith Geddes, Chair of the Central Scotland Green Network, said: “We are proud to launch the CSGN Community Project Fund which will support local groups in delivering the CSGN vision on the ground, in order to transform central Scotland into a place where the environment adds value to the economy and where people’s lives are enriched by its quality.
“We are looking forward to receiving applications for the available grants which can be used for a wide range of activities from outdoor learning and community growing through to biodiversity.
“We are also keen to hear about other creative and innovative projects which capture the imagination of the local community and encourage people to use and enjoy their local greenspace.”
The 2017 CSGN Community Project Fund is administered by CSGNT in partnership with the Greggs Foundation, using funds raised through the carrier bag charge in Greggs stores.
The Greggs Foundation is a charitable trust aiming to make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged people within local communities.
Tracy Lynch, the Greggs Foundation Manager, said: “Supporting the CSGN Community Project Fund feels like a natural decision for the Greggs Foundation – it is perfectly aligned to our vision which is to make a difference to people in need in the heart our local communities.
“We look forward to working together and helping to improve not only the environment, but the quality of life for the local communities that will benefit from these worthwhile projects.”
Groups can apply for funds up to £1,000 for projects carried out within the CSGN boundaries. The deadline for applications is Monday 1 May 2017.
For further information or to discuss a potential application to the CSGN Community Project Fund 2017, please visit www.centralscotlandgreennetwork.org/cpf or contact cpf@csgnt.org.uk