A new grant fund has been set up to support innovative business growth in Ceredigion.

The Cynnal y Cardi Local Action Group is launching a new Grant Fund, as part of the Cynnal y Cardi Leader scheme, which will support small-scale projects in the county.

The fund will provide revenue to support pilot projects, feasibility studies, facilitation, networking activities and training and mentoring ideas.

Applications are welcomed from organisations in the third, public and private sectors.

The fund will focus on strengthening opportunities for developing Ceredigion’s circular economy; support early intervention for the development of pre-commercial activity; strengthen community resilience, with a focus on the role of town and community councils and reinvigorating community activity post Covid-19.

The fund, which is administered by Ceredigion County Council, is supported through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

Cllr Rhodri Evans, Ceredigion council cabinet member with responsibility for the economy and regeneration, said: “We understand that Covid-19 has made the past two years a tough time for the county, and in light of the pandemic, the priorities for Ceredigion’s Local Development Strategy have been reviewed in September 2020.

"This new grant scheme provides opportunities for us to tackle the issues and build on the opportunities following Covid-19 within our communities in order to strengthen our resilience. I urge you to take full advantage of this opportunity.”

The first closing date for submitting your applications is 17 January 2022. Submissions are welcome in Welsh or English. You will need to discuss your ideas with the team. Contact the team by email at [email protected] or visit Cynnal y Cardi for more information.