Published on 19th June 2012

five pound notes

Businesses and community groups can currently apply for a share of a £156,500 grant towards initiatives which will encourage economic and business growth in Cheltenham.

This is a second round of funding from the Promoting Cheltenham Fund, but the closing date for bids is 5pm on Friday 29 June 2012, so the council is urging local organisations to get their application forms submitted.

The money will be awarded to projects that have the support of their local community. Successful projects will stimulate economic and business growth in Cheltenham and increase the number of visitors, business investment, and help to raise the profile of the borough on a national or even international scale.

Single awards can reach up to £20,000 though larger bids for multiple events may be considered. This year, the funding has been opened out to help give local trading areas a boost.

Councillor Steve Jordan, leader of the council, says: “Our first round of funding from the Promoting Cheltenham Fund was very successful and we were pleased to be able to support so many interesting projects such as the new Cheltenham Design Festival, Cheltenham Poetry Festival, and the Fashion and Beauty event.

“I really would urge local businesses and organisations to make their applications now and secure funding to bring forward new and exciting projects for the town. Reasonably small amounts of money really can make a big difference.”

Application forms and guidelines are available online and from the Municipal Offices. The closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 29 June and the final decision will be made by the council’s Cabinet on 17 July 2012.

People can also contact Richard Gibson, strategy and engagement manager on 01242 235354 for more details.

For media enquiries, contact: Kelly Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 264154, email kelly.carter@cheltenham.gov.uk

Notes:
The first round was launched in July 2011 and on 18 October 2011, Cabinet agreed to support 14 projects, details of these can be found here.

The Promoting Cheltenham Fund for 2012-13 is worth £156,500, this is made up of £141, 500 from the new homes bonus allocation for 2012-13 and £15,000 of unspent funding from last year’s Promoting Cheltenham Fund.