Aims/priorities: The funding is intended to support innovative projects that will create a long-term difference in remote rural areas of the UK.
The RCF seeks to achieve the following outcomes through the programme:
- Reinvigorating or developing community networks.
- Improving the health and well-being of socially isolated people.
- Creating a legacy of support and promoting community spirit and cohesion.
- Communities supporting one another through volunteering opportunities.
- Promoting a greener economy by encouraging people to travel less and utilise locally grown and crafted products.
- Rural communities are more resilient.
- Successful community-led solutions.
Who can apply? Applications will be accepted from properly constituted, not-for-profit and community-led organisations with an income of less than £500,000 per year, operating in remote rural areas, who can demonstrate how beneficiaries will be drawn from the local rural community.
Applications from groups and organisations with projects in hamlets, villages and small market towns are particularly welcome.
Grant amount: Grants of up to £25,000 over two years are available.
Projects funded by the Autumn 2023 round do not need to start immediately but they must be completed by January 2026.
Please note this is a highly competitive fund with only up to 15% of applicants being awarded a grant in each round.
Application process: There are usually two funding rounds per year with applications accepted in the Spring and again in the Autumn.
The Autumn grants 2023 is open for applications from 8 September 2023 to 20 October 2023 (midday).
Eligibility criteria, eligibility quiz, FAQs and online application portal can be found on the Royal Countryside Fund website.
The link to the application form is only open during the application window and will be taken down at midday on the closing date. Applicants are encouraged to submit their application before the closing date.
Applicants who wish to discuss their project before applying may arrange a call with the Royal Countryside Fund by initially using the Fund's online contact form.
Deadline: Friday, 20 October 2023, midday.
Contact information: Email: grants@countrysidefund.org.uk
Website: Home - The Royal Countryside Fund