Do you have a community business idea and need support to get it off the ground? Grants of up to £20,000 and a programme of support are available.
The Community Business Bright Ideas Fund aims to give your community group the support and tools to start setting up your community business. It will also give your group the early stage finance that you need need to carry out consultation with local people and feasibility studies to develop a community business idea the community wants and needs.
What is a community business?
A community business is set up and led by local people to look after what matters to them. Any profits flow back into the business to deliver positive local impact.
Watch some case studies to hear some community business ideas, or hear from Claire Mappin at the Burton Street Foundation in Sheffield talk about their community business and how it benefits the people of Hillsborough.
What the Bright Ideas Fund offers
– Online induction and ongoing support, either online, by phone or where possible through visits
– Community Business development plans, to help successful groups shape and develop strategies and plans for their community business
– Mentoring and visits, to inspire applicants and give them the opportunity to learn from peers
– Regional networking and events, to learn from social finance experts, successful community business leaders, funders and technical specialists.
Key dates
1 November 2017: Round 3 opens for applications
1 December 2017: Round 3 closes for applications
Find out more => http://mycommunity.org.uk/funding-options/bright-ideas-fund/
Bright Ideas Fund Live Chat
Join three of the Bright Ideas Fund programme experts on the Advice Community Forum to talk about the fund and how to make your application successful.
Three of the programme staff will be online from 2pm – 3pm on Wednesday 25 October ready to answer any of your questions and talk through the third and final round of the Bright Ideas Fund.
You’ll pick up helpful hints and tips, be guided through the eligibility criteria and can ask any questions you may have.
