Frome Town Council has announced the launch of the Substantial Grant which is a new scheme available for Frome based organisations looking for more substantial sums of funding to support the running of their organisations and the delivery of larger projects over the coming year.

The grant has been co-designed by councillors, staff, and representatives from over 25 local organisations. Together they worked with Public Square; an organisation focused on increasing participation in council decision making around the world. The new grant has been designed to reflect the true needs of local organisations and their potential funding requirements.

Cllr Mark Dorrington said: "We're delighted to be able to launch the new Substantial Grant following the redesign process, and this new grant will take the place of the previous Multi-Year Agreements. It took a lot of time and effort to reshape this grant and we are confident that this now meets the requirements of local organisations.

"The new improved process is now more inclusive, with applicants attending public meetings to discuss their applications and also members of the public joining Cllrs and the Grants Advisory Panel in the decision making. We welcome all the applicants in this round."

The funds will be distributed through two grant rounds each year and FTC expect to issue grants of £5,000 - £6,000 per organisation. The first round is open for applications now, with the closing date of Friday 25th June. FTC are particularly interested in hearing from organisations who can demonstrate a particular benefit for Frome residents, can show how they will compliment and work with other projects in Frome, as well as how projects will be financially sustainable in the long run.

Organisations must be able to demonstrate this through the application process.

If you would like more information about this exciting grant opportunity, please visit www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/grants. Please contact Kate Hellard, Community Development Manager on [email protected] for an informal conversation about whether your organisation or project is a good fit for this fund.