Villages in Ceredigion have one month left to apply for a share of £5 million Lottery cash to create exciting community enterprises that will help to revitalise their area and meet the needs of local people.
Projects have until 5pm on Thursday October 20 2011 to apply for up to £30,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Village SOS Active competition, which follows hot on the heels of the primetime BBC One series, Village SOS.
Anyone living in a rural village of less than 3,000 people, with an enterprising idea should register at www.villagesos.org.uk where they will find more details as well as an online support network. All they need to do is outline their idea in a quick and easy online form and the best ideas will be chosen to complete a full application for a grant of between £10,000 and £30,000. Extra support for those interested in applying is available via a telephone advice line – 0845 434 9123 – with experts giving practical tips on how to develop their ideas and make their village business a success.
“This is an opportunity not to be missed. I’m sure that villages throughout Ceredigion can think of projects to put forward. Entering the competition couldset the way for the rejuvenation of much of rural Ceredigion”, commented Counillor Keith Evans, Leader of Ceredigion County Council.
The funding pot is part of a wider BIG campaign which is offering a range of tools and resources to help communities reverse rural decline and revive village life. From business plan templates to an expert advice line and regional learning events, the campaign aims to help communities rejuvenate their villages and start up new business ventures that will help people tackle local problems such as the closure of vital amenities and services, or a lack of training and employment opportunities.
For further information visit www.villagesos.org.uk
