Charities, community groups, schools and colleges across Solihull can now apply for unprecedented funding following the launch of a £9 million Commonwealth Games legacy fund.
The Inclusive Communities Fund has been designed to boost the profile and promote the growth of the West Midlands by financially supporting community projects that bring people together and improve health and wellbeing.
The fund intends to continue the positive legacy of the 2022 Commonwealth Games by giving grassroots organisations across the region access to new funding.
Solihull Council is encouraging charities, schools, and not-for-profit groups in the borough to take advantage of this opportunity and apply to this scheme. The funding will be allocated for projects that promote physical activity, mental wellbeing and/or arts and creativity.
There are currently four types of grants available. Applications for small works and refurbishment grants (up to £100,000) and large grants (£75,000 - £300,000) close soon on Thursday 4 January 2024, whereas applications for small grants (up to £15,000) and medium grants (£15,000 - £75,000) will close at a currently undecided date in 2024.
Councillor Wazma Qais, Cabinet Member for Communities & Leisure, said:
“The Inclusive Communities Fund is a wonderful opportunity for community-led organisations to make a positive and lasting impact in Solihull.
“Last year, the Commonwealth Games brought a huge boost to the borough, and we’d love to see groups applying for the larger grants before the deadline so that the legacy of the games can continue to inspire people to come together and make a real difference in their local community.”
The fund is a collaboration between the UK Government Department for Culture, Media, and Sport, West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Heart of England Community Foundation and United By 2022, the Official Games Legacy Charity.
For more information, including how to apply, visit the Heart of England webpage.