Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council launches £440,000 fund to support rural organisations and businesses

Community organisations and businesses can now apply for capital funding for projects to support rural areas of North Hampshire.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has launched its new rural fund which aims to support rural community organisations and small businesses with the delivery of new and innovative projects to benefit their area.

The funding – which amounts to nearly £440,000 – could be used for investment in new machinery to modernise production methods, investment in technology to improve energy efficiency of facilities or investment in converting buildings into accommodation or facilities for tourists.

The council has encouraged organisations to think creatively and discuss their ideas with its grants team.

Organisations and businesses can apply for a grant of up to £30,000 for projects that support the diversification of the rural economy, improve the visitor infrastructure and experience, enhance community facilities and accelerate the adoption of new production and green technologies.

Councillor John McKay, cabinet member for communities, partnerships and inclusion, said: “Community organisations and businesses play a vital role in our rural towns and villages and we want to support them to thrive.

“Our Basingstoke and Deane rural fund is now open to support new innovative projects that will improve the way they work, boost residents’ quality of life and attract more visitors to these areas to support our vital rural economy.”

Organisations and businesses interested in applying will need to email ukspf@basingstoke.gov.uk to discuss their project idea before applying to the fund.

The deadline for applications is December 10 and all projects must be completed by February 28, 2025.