Grants of between £1,000 and £15,000 are available for community groups and organisations, and awards from £2,000 to £20,000 for businesses.

Dorset Council has been allocated just over £6 million via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for use within the county, with funds available until completion in March 2025.

Dorset Council is keen to provide support for grassroots community-led development, supporting local groups to lead on what their community needs and wants.

Groups or organisations are required to provide at least 10 per cent match funding (cash or in-kind match funding is acceptable).

Businesses can apply for grants towards digital technology and innovation, research and development, business growth and exports.

Round 1 closes on Wednesday 31 January.

For further details on the scheme, visit the Shared Prosperity Fund pages on the Dorset Council website.