Winchester District Small Grant Scheme:- Winchester, January 2025 – Local community organizations and voluntary groups in the Winchester District are once again being offered a unique opportunity to enhance their services and projects, thanks to the Winchester District Small Grant Scheme 2024/2025.
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This initiative provides grants of up to £1,000 to eligible not-for-profit groups, enabling them to make a tangible difference in their communities.
Winchester District Small Grant Scheme 2025
This annual scheme, designed to address the immediate needs of local groups, focuses on one-off expenditures or start-up costs.
The grants aim to empower organizations by funding essential projects, new equipment, and activities that can improve outreach, enhance service delivery, or explore innovative solutions for the community’s benefit.
What the Small Grant Scheme Offers?
The Winchester District Small Grant Scheme is a lifeline for organizations working at the grassroots level. The grants are specifically intended for:
- One-off costs related to special events or unique activities.
- Purchase of new equipment for community use.
- Set-up expenses for new groups or initiatives.
- Marketing materials to increase awareness of services.
The scheme ensures that funds are used for impactful purposes, such as setting up a community garden, equipping a youth center, or hosting workshops to address pressing issues like mental health or sustainability. The scope of funding excludes recurring operational costs, entertainment, refreshments, or purely religious/political activities, ensuring that the grants serve a broad and inclusive community purpose.
Winchester District Small Grant Program Eligibility and Criteria
The scheme invites applications from a wide range of organizations, including:
- Local not-for-profit groups.
- Community organizations.
- Registered charities.
- Community Interest Companies (CICs) limited by guarantee.
- Parish councils.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Demonstrate a direct benefit to residents of the Winchester District.
- Operate under a constitution or documented framework with transparent decision-making processes.
- Adhere to the funding themes and priority outcomes established by Winchester City Council.
Projects aligning with council priorities—such as addressing low income, isolation, homelessness, mental health challenges, and promoting sustainability—are given special consideration. Organizations must ensure that their activities are inclusive, accessible, and reflective of the diverse needs of their communities.
Funding Priorities and Impact Areas
The council has outlined specific funding priorities to maximize the impact of these grants. Applicants are encouraged to design projects that support one or more of the following themes:
Addressing community needs:–
- Reducing isolation among vulnerable populations.
- Alleviating the effects of poverty.
- Supporting homeless individuals.
- Enhancing mental health and well-being.
- Combating physical inactivity.
Driving positive change:–
- Encouraging digital innovation.
- Promoting sustainability and green technologies.
- Supporting creative and innovative projects.
- Fostering business growth within the community.
By aligning their proposals with these objectives, organizations not only increase their chances of receiving funding but also contribute to a healthier, more inclusive, and forward-thinking Winchester District.
Winchester district small grant scheme Application Process and Timelines
- Applications are open on a rolling basis, with reviews conducted every 2-3 months. The fund will remain open until 28 February 2025, or earlier if the allocated budget is fully utilized. Given the scheme’s competitive nature, organizations are urged to apply promptly.
- Interested groups must submit their proposals via the Flexigrant online system.
- Applicants are required to provide detailed project descriptions, budgets, and any supporting documents.
- Eligible candidates will be invited to a virtual panel discussion to present their proposals.
- The council advises allowing 10-12 weeks from submission to final decision. For urgent funding needs, applicants can consult the council in advance to expedite their requests.
How to Apply for Winchester district small grant scheme 2025?
Organizations eager to participate in the scheme should visit the Winchester City Council website or contact the community grants team at grants@winchester.gov.uk.
Conclusion
The Winchester District Small Grant Scheme 2024/2025 continues to be a cornerstone of community development in the region. By providing targeted financial support, the scheme empowers local organizations to address pressing needs, experiment with innovative solutions, and create a more inclusive and vibrant community.
With the fund closing on 28 February 2025—or sooner if fully allocated—eligible groups are urged to seize this opportunity to bring their vision to life and make a difference in Winchester District.
