Prince's Countryside Fund open for applications

Rural enterprise projects across the UK can apply for funding from the Prince's Countryside Fund.

The charity aims to improve the prospects of family farm businesses and the quality of life in rural areas. It has announced a grant funding pot of over £600,000 to suport rural initiatives.

Rural enterprise projects including enhancing community services, providing training opportunities for young and unemployed people and projects that focus on developing stronger, more sustainable farm businesses can now apply for a grants of up to £50,000.

The fund is also opening up specific funds to help support the winter flood recovery. Organisations that are supporting farmers, rural businesses and communities following the severe storms in December 2015 across Scotland, Cumbria, Lancashire, Herefordshire, Northumberland and North Yorkshire and parts of Northern Ireland can apply.

Clare Crookenden, grants manager for The Prince’s Countryside Fund, said:

"Since 2010 our grant programme has provided a vital boost to people and grassroot organisations who are working hard to protect and enhance the countryside. We’ve been able to support innovative and diverse projects, ranging from inspiring young people to develop their skills and pursue a rural career to strengthening rural businesses who have been hit hard in recent years.

"Our grant programme has been made to available to help improve the lives of people living and working in the countryside. Community shops, libraries and pubs and the people that support them add vibrancy and strength to rural communities and we are committed to help. Action is needed to give rural communities the chance to provide the vital services that they rely on and to ensure all of us benefit from retaining a vibrant countryside."

The closing date for applications is Thursday 13 October 2016.

Visit the Princes Countryside Fund website to check your eligibility and found out how to apply.