Community and cultural organisations in the county are now able to apply for funding from a new grant scheme launched by Dorset Council.

The Capital Leverage Fund can help fund a range of projects, including village hall or community building enhancements, renovations, maintenance, or new build projects, including car parks, play areas, multi-use games areas, theatres, community sports clubs, sports pitches and landscaping.

The authority also welcomes applications for projects that helps to address climate change themes, new public art, or heritage capital projects including accredited museums.

Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Customer and Community Services, said: “We hope to see many applications for these grants. There are grants available for up to £25,000.

“We know that this can significantly impact one-off or capital projects and we want to assist projects that can demonstrate how they support their local communities and making Dorset a great place to live, work and visit.”

You can apply for a capital grant of between £1,000 and £25,000, to fund up to 20 per cent of your total project costs. For more details on criteria, fund aims, and how to complete your application form follow the link to the council’s webpage.

Projects need to meet at least one of the Dorset Council priorities and the Cultural Strategy priorities.

Applications can only be accepted via the online application form. Applications will close at 12pm on Friday 6 January 2023.

To apply for a grant, you can download the application guidance, support materials and an application form from the website.

Applications will be considered three times a year.

If you’d like to speak to us about your project, or need more information email:

Community and voluntary sector applicants (including play): communities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Cultural applicants (arts, accredited museums, heritage, sports and physical activity): leisureWDWP@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk