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Key Takeaways
- Substantial new grants will be available to Horsham’s rural communities, boosting development.
- Programmes focus on business growth, community infrastructure, and sustainability.
- Applications open on 9 May 2025, encouraging early preparation.
- Potential projects include renewable energy systems, tourism ventures, and farm diversification.
- These initiatives aim to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and support rural resilience.
Table of contents
Overview of Funding Programmes
Horsham’s rural communities are set to receive a substantial boost with new funding opportunities aimed at supporting local development and growth. Starting 9 May 2025, a range of grants will be available to individuals, businesses, and organisations across the district. This funding represents a “pivotal investment” in the area’s future, encouraging a variety of projects from business expansion to community infrastructure enhancements.
Several Horsham grants are now accessible to rural areas, each designed to address specific needs and promote sustainable development:
Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF)
• Allocation of £261,477 for 2025/26
• Objectives: Supporting local business and community/place development
• Focus on capital funding for rural areas
The REPF is a cornerstone of this initiative, offering significant support for small-scale investments in micro and small enterprises, as well as community projects across rural Horsham.
Farm Diversification Grants
• Purpose: Helping agricultural businesses diversify beyond traditional farming
• Examples of eligible projects include farm shops, agri-tourism, and value-added processing facilities
These grants encourage local farmers to explore alternative revenue streams and adapt to evolving market conditions.
Rural Tourism Funding
• Aim: Advancing tourism initiatives in rural Horsham
• Potential projects include B&Bs, outdoor activity centres, and heritage attractions
By boosting rural tourism, these grants can create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
Renewable Energy Rural Grants
• Encouraging sustainable energy projects in rural areas
• Types of eligible projects: solar panel installations, wind turbines, and biomass energy systems
These grants aim to support rural communities in reducing energy costs while promoting environmental stewardship.
Support for Business Growth
Rural business support is central to these new funding programmes, with capital funding available for growth and innovation projects. Micro enterprise rural funding options are especially beneficial for small businesses seeking to expand or modernise.
Some successful examples of rural business projects include:
- A family-run dairy that used grant funding to establish an artisanal cheese facility.
- A rural pub that opened a community shop with grant assistance.
- A local craft business that expanded its online reach through funding support.
These examples illustrate how rural communities funding in Horsham can catalyse economic growth and innovation in the area.
Community Development and Sustainability
The new grants also emphasise community infrastructure improvements to enhance quality of life in rural areas. Funding is available for sustainable projects focusing on resilience and collective wellbeing. This can include renovating village halls, creating or improving green spaces, and developing community-owned renewable energy.
An additional focus is on public access improvements, enabling easier access to parks, rural landmarks, and local attractions. These efforts not only benefit residents but can also attract visitors and bolster rural tourism.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for rural communities funding in Horsham, applicants must meet certain criteria set by each grant programme. Typically, you should:
- Be based in or primarily serve rural areas within Horsham District.
- Demonstrate clear benefits to the local economy or community.
- Provide a realistic plan and evidence of project sustainability.
The application process opens on 9 May 2025. Interested parties are advised to start preparations early, which includes reviewing each programme’s specific guidelines, gathering essential documents, completing the online form, and submitting any required supporting materials. It’s crucial to highlight how your project aligns with the relevant grant’s goals and objectives.
Not-for-Profit and Local Economy Support
Not-for-profit grants in Horsham support community organisations seeking to make a lasting impact. Initiatives ranging from social services to cultural events may be eligible. Additionally, local economy funding aims to create jobs, attract visitors, and strengthen rural supply chains.
By backing diverse endeavours across multiple sectors, these grants help develop a more resilient and dynamic local economy.
Previous Success Stories
Past projects underscore how effectively rural communities funding can transform the area. Examples include:
- A community-led broadband programme delivering high-speed internet to a remote village.
- A historic barn conversion into an arts and education centre.
- A farm-to-table eatery that sources all ingredients from local producers.
These success stories reveal the transformative potential of targeted grants for rural communities.
Impact on Rural Communities
The anticipated impact of these new funding streams is far-reaching. They address the unique challenges of rural living by strengthening local services, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing environmental stewardship. Over time, residents could see:
- Improved infrastructure and community facilities
- More robust local economies
- Greater sense of community cohesion
- Reduced carbon footprints through sustainable projects
Conclusion
The upcoming launch of rural communities funding in Horsham signals a major opportunity for local residents and businesses. From boosting business growth to improving public amenities, these grants can unlock lasting benefits throughout the district. Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore the relevant programmes and begin planning well before the 9 May 2025 opening date.
For more information on rural communities funding in Horsham and to access official application materials, please visit the
Horsham District Council’s official funding page.
You can also reach the Grants Team at grants@horsham.gov.uk or call 01403 215100 for further support.
FAQs
Who can apply for the new rural funding opportunities?
Generally, individuals, businesses, and organisations based in Horsham’s rural districts are eligible. The exact criteria vary by grant, but all focus on serving the local community and economy.
When do applications open and how do I apply?
Applications officially open on 9 May 2025. You should review each grant’s specific guidelines, gather required documents, then submit your application through the online portal available on the
Horsham District Council’s official funding page.
What types of projects are eligible for these grants?
Projects vary by programme but can include business expansions, community centre renovations, renewable energy installations, and more. The goal is to support initiatives that strengthen local infrastructure and promote economic growth.
How will this funding impact rural communities in the long run?
Funding is expected to create new jobs, improve public amenities, foster sustainability, and support community-driven initiatives. In the long term, this should lead to a more vibrant and resilient rural Horsham.