Bedford Borough Council is delighted to announce the opening of a new round of grant funding for community organisations based in rural areas. The Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) grants are part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and aim to strengthen social fabric, foster local pride, and enhance physical, cultural, and social ties within rural communities. Bedford Borough has been allocated £2,296,175 of UKSPF funding.

Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity, said; “We are excited to offer these grants to rural community organisations in Bedford Borough. This funding will enable them to deliver impactful projects that benefit their local residents and contribute to the overall well-being of our rural communities.”

The REPF grants offer three funding streams:

• impactful Volunteering and Social Action Project Grants: Funding for projects that support volunteering and social action initiatives, such as improvements to premises to enable local volunteering groups or purchase of equipment
• creation of and Improvements to Local Rural Green Spaces: Grants for projects that enhance rural green and blue infrastructure such as green spaces and watercourse and embankments

• investment in Capacity Building and Infrastructure Support: for example, funding for resilience infrastructure and nature-based solutions that protect local businesses and community areas from natural hazards including flooding.

Grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 are available, and applications are welcomed from rural organisations such as voluntary groups, community groups, and Parish Councils.

The closing date for applications is Friday 1 November 2024.

For more information and to apply please email BedfordUKSPF@bedford.gov.uk or visit our website: www.bedford.gov.uk/business/invest-bedford/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-ukspf