A new £2 million fund to help charities, community groups and voluntary organisations has launched.
‘Bolton’s Fund’ has opened for applications, following the approval of the Voluntary Community Social Enterprise (VCSE) Strategy by Bolton Council’s Cabinet in October.
It brings together funding from Bolton Council, NHS Bolton CCG, Bolton at Home and Bolton CVS.
The first round will focus on projects that help children get the best start in life with small investments of £1,500 (Level 1) and up to £5,000 (Level 2) available to address needs and opportunities in this area.
Bolton CVS will be managing the grants programme on behalf of partners. Further information on Bolton’s Fund can be found on Bolton CVS’s website: https://www.boltoncvs.org.uk/big-bolton-fund-grants
Organisations are invited to come along to a briefing session to find out more on Monday, November 18, 11am to 1pm at The Bolton Hub, Bold Street.
Register in advance by visiting https://www.boltoncvs.org.uk/training, email funding@boltoncvs.org.uk or call 01204 546010.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday, December 2.
Further rounds focused on themes aligned with the Vision 2030 priorities and with different investment levels will be announced in the new year.
Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr David Greenhalgh, said: “Our diverse voluntary and community sector plays an invaluable role in our borough and Bolton’s Fund will deliver positive lasting benefits for our communities.
“It will help organisations deliver projects that make a difference to the lives of local people, and I would urge people to come along to the event on Monday to find out more.”
Executive Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Cllr Nadim Muslim, added: “The new fund will give more groups an opportunity to apply for funding and the whole process will be led by senior representatives from the sector, with support from the council.
“The sector will have one voice and the process will be streamlined and transparent.”
Darren Knight, Chief Executive of Bolton CVS, said: “The fund builds on our commitment to valuing local communities and we are really excited by the opportunities available for groups.
“If your organisation is making a difference, and wants to make Bolton a vibrant place to live, work, learn and volunteer, please come to the session on Monday and get in touch with us.”