£60k match funding available for rural projects

Published: Mon, 21 Nov 2011
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Up to £60k in match funding is available
Rural Ards
Are you involved in a rural regeneration project under the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme? We may be able to offer some part- funding, but you must send in your application by 12th December.
We are committed to supporting rural regeneration and the roll-out of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme (RDP). The RDP can provide up to 75% funding under its Basic Services and Village Renewal measures, for rural community groups to undertake a wide range of community based projects.
We have now set aside £60,000 in match funding for RDP community projects (under Basic Services or Village Renewal) in this financial year.
Groups interested in match funding are invited to discuss their project and complete an expression of interest form before 12 December 2011 by contacting either:
Gerry Cunningham on 02890318368; e-mail: gerry.cunningham@nihe.gov.uk
Or
Michael Conway on 02890318559; e mail: michael.conway@nihe.gov.uk
Successful applications will be:
  • for non private sector projects in rural areas (i.e. population of less than 4,500 people);
  • receiving or being considered for RDP funding under Axis 3; and
  • expected to be undertaken by the end of the financial year.
Projects must:
  • contribute to community, economic, social or physical renewal
  • demonstrate some benefit to local areas of social housing (though projects do not have to be on Housing Executive estates)
  • meet an identified need in the area
  • not conflict with, duplicate or substitute other public or statutory funding responsibilities; and
  • not fund salaries and running costs.
While the identified funding is aimed at the current financial year, groups with potential projects should make contact so that the possibility of the scheme being extended to 2012/13 can also be considered.
Completed forms should be returned by post or e mail to:
Gerry Cunningham
Regeneration Services
Norwich Union House
7 Fountain Street
Belfast BT1 5EA
E mail: gerry.cunningham@nihe.gov.uk
All applications will be considered by a steering group of Housing Executive officials. Successful applicants will be asked to formally sign up for match funding; a funding offer letter, acceptance letter and funding conditions letter will be forwarded. Unsuccessful applicants will be advised accordingly.