We are pleased to be able to announce that we are now open again for applications from businesses, farmers, foresters and community groups in the Somerset Levels & Moors area.
The Somerset Levels & Moors Area Local Action Group (LAG) has over £1m of grant money to allocate through the LEADER Programme 2015-2020. The overall aim of the funding is to improve the local rural economy through the creation of jobs and business growth.
The LAG, made up of community, public and private sector representatives, will guide the rural development programme and award funding to projects which address the national and local priorities set out in the Local Development Strategy.
Grant requests can be between £2,500 and £100,000 and will typically be limited to 40% of the overall project cost. There is a two-stage application process which takes approximately 4 months to complete. Any project expenditure made before a formal agreement would not qualify for funding.
If you have an exciting business idea that you think would contribute to the growth of the Somerset Levels & Moors rural economy and requires financial assistance please contact Laura Jensen on 01823 357105. For more information about LEADER and how to apply visit www.somersetleader.org.uk
The LEADER programme is part of the European Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in Rural Areas. Somerset County Council acts as the Accountable Body on behalf of DEFRA and the Rural Payments Agency.