Rural businesses can apply for up to £750,000 in EU grant funding for projects which help grow the regional economy and create new jobs.
DEFRA’s Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) Growth Programme provides grants for rural business development, food processing businesses and those involved in rural tourism infrastructure.
Grants from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), start at a minimum of £20,000 and applicants can apply for up to 40% of eligible costs.
Only companies employing fewer than 50 people can apply under the rural business and tourism themes, however any size of business under the food processing theme can apply, subject to meeting the criteria. Projects need to demonstrate evidence of good value for money by creating jobs off the back of the grant investment and any business considering applying should read the guidance carefully before applying.
Application is in two stages and organisations must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) form. If successful at this stage, organisations will be invited to formally apply. Expression of Interest forms must be sent to the Marches LEP by the February 16 deadline with funding bids submitted by May 31.
If you would like more information and advice on how to apply visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/rdpe-growth-programme or contact the Marches Growth Hub at enquiries@marchesgrowthhub.co.uk