Rural businesses invited to learn about grants
Farmers, foresters and community organisations are being invited to a seminar in October to find out how a new funding stream can help them get their project off the ground.
The Fieldfare Local Action Group, which allocates LEADER funding in the East Hampshire and Winchester area, is holding the event to explain how its grants system works and who can apply for funding.
The event will take place on Tuesday 6 October from 2pm to 3pm at INTECH, Telegraph Way, Morn Hill, Winchester SO21 1HX. To reserve your place, please contact Catherine Hawkins on 01962 848 or Chawkins@winchester.gov.uk
Chawkins@winchester.gov.uk
LEADER funding can be used to provide added value to farm diversification projects, help establish new or developing existing rural businesses, modernise agricultural buildings, village developments, rural heritage, and projects supporting tourism.
Visitors to the recent Alresford Agricultural Show were also able to speak to representatives from the Fieldfare Local Action Group and learn more about how the funding system works.
Andrew Gordon, Chair of the Fieldfare Local Action Group, was pleased with the contacts made at the agricultural show.
He said: “The LEADER team spoke to more than eighty people about the chance to ‘grab a grant’ of up to £50,000. It is always exciting to learn about local business ideas and to be able to encourage that entrepreneurship through grant funding.”
Cllr George Beckett, Leader of Winchester City Council, is keen to share the funding with the local community: “Supporting local businesses remains a priority during these difficult times. We are looking forward to seeing some excellent work as a result of the LEADER funding stream and our friendly programme team are keen to make the process of applying for grants as quick and easy as possible.”
Cllr Richard Millard, portfolio holder for local economy at East Hampshire District Council, is encouraging everyone to take advantage of the funding stream: “It is vital that we help our rural businesses as the credit crunch continues to bite. This is a fantastic opportunity and I urge you to come to the seminar and learn more about how this could work for you.”
For more information go to www.winchester.gov.uk/leaderfunding or contact the team direct on 01962 848588.