Online event to urge business involvement with Renewal Fund

Organisations across Staffordshire can find out more about how they can apply for a share of a new national community fund via a free online event this Friday, 16 April.

The fund aims to support people and communities most in need across the UK by piloting programmes and new approaches in preparation for the launch of UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The long term vision for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is to increase funding for projects that are supporting people and places across the UK, focused on domestic priorities, growing local economies, and breathing new life into our communities.

Staffordshire County Council will be seeking bids from organisations wishing to deliver activity and is urging organisations to find out more at Friday 's online introductory webinar from 10.30am.

Up to £220 million will be available nationally in support of the initiative, with projects expecting to be delivered before 31 March.

Staffordshire County Council 's assistant director for skills and employability, Anthony Baines, said: “The UK Community Renewal Fund aims to support people and communities most in need across two pilot programmes and new approaches and will invest in skills, community and place, local business, and supporting people into employment.

“The fund will operate from 2021/2022 only and will invite a range of applicants to bid including, but not limited to, colleges, universities, independent training providers, voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations and umbrella business groups.

“We 'd urge people to sign up to Friday 's webinar to find out more so that they can get started on the application process. ”

The webinar will give attendees background and context to the fund, explain the application and selection process, timelines and more.

To register for the event via Eventbrite, click here

To find out more on the county council 's UK Community Fund website, visit: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/UKCommunityRenewalFund