Cooperative Working
The Cooperative Working Grant is a scheme for existing businesses that have
a maximum of 25 employees and community groups whose project activity will
be based in the North West Devon LEADER+ area.
For businesses the grant will provide up to 30% of eligible costs up to a maximum of £5000.
For community groups the grant will provide up to 75% of eligible costs
up to a maximum of £5000.
For joint applications between business and community groups the grant will provide up to 30% of eligible costs up to a maximum of £5000.
What can I use the grant for?
The grant scheme will encourage cooperative working to maximise the potential of resources and facilities. The activities that take place may or may not result in the formation of formal cooperatives.
Some examples could be:
- A group of village halls that wish to establish a system for bookings and / or referrals that will ensure the best possible use of the available facilities and activities.
- A groups of small businesses joining together to establish a joint marketing,
or to be be able to provide a "start to finish" service for their customers by allowing a smooth transition between local businesses that provided linked services.
- A group of historical or archaeological socieities joining together to share their findings and establish a joint exhibition or event.
- Local businesses coming together to establish a local produce stall for weekly markets or set up a distribution network to reach a new market within the LEADER+ area.
How do I apply?
Please contact the LEADER+ team to obtain an application form.
The LEADER+ team will be able to advise you on whether your proposals
will be eligible for the grant, and may be able to assist you with completing the application form. However, grants are allocated at the discretion of a panel and officers cannot guarantee the success of any application.
You will be required to include a form of "partnering agreement", which will set out the various roles and responsibilities.
How long will the grant scheme last?
It is intended that the grant will be available until 31st December 2008. However, there is only a limited amount of available funding that will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that the grant scheme may be closed to applications before the above date.
When will I know if my application is successful?
We must receive your application at least two weeks before the grant panel meeting at which it will be considered. The whole application process can take up to two months. From time to time the panel may feel that it has insufficient information to allow it to reach a decision. In these cases it may defer the application to a future meeting to allow you to provide aditional details.
