Today, Kingston First, the town centre’s Business Improvement District (BID), has opened its first Community Fund – a £15,000 package of funding for projects and initiatives that have a positive impact on the town centre, support local businesses and promote positive community engagement.
The Kingston First Town Centre Community Fund, open for applications from today until 12 January 2024 is primarily aimed at not for profit, charity or voluntary organisations although anyone who can demonstrate they meet the criteria can apply. The fund consists of £15,000 and organisations can bid for all, or some of, this amount as long as the idea or project is delivered by the end of 2024.
As well as funding being available, successful applicants will also be able to access Kingston First’s professional training opportunities to help build their capabilities and achieve long-term success.
Funding will be decided through a competitive process, seeking applications from eligible individuals and organisations.
Shareena Merzi, Director of Communications and Corporate Development at Kingston First said:
“We believe Kingston’s local community plays a pivotal role in creating a vibrant and diverse town centre that residents and visitors want to spend time in. That’s why we have launched the Kingston First Town Centre Community Fund today to support local and community focused causes that bring something positive to Kingston town centre and promotes even better partnership working between businesses and the community.”
“The funding could be used for an event, a trail, public artwork, a service for businesses or something completely different. We’re looking to receive new and innovative ideas that can make a difference to Kingston and the businesses that operate here. We hope to continue to provide funding and support to local community and voluntary organisations in future years.”
The year’s fund is a pilot scheme and it is hoped the fund will grow in future years.
Eligibility and application process
In a nutshell we’re open to projects and activities that can be delivered in the town centre by the end of 2024 that encourage people to visit the town and raise the profile of Kingston.
To find out more about the fund and the application process please visit: https://www.kingstonfirst.co.uk/community-fund/
Deadline for applications is 12 January 2024.
We will be announcing the successful applicants by early Spring 2024.
About Kingston First
As the UK’s first Business Improvement District (BID), Kingston First has been driving initiatives to support the commercial success of the business community in Kingston since 2005. They deliver exceptional services that ensure Kingston is a thriving and attractive environment to do business in, as well as a vibrant and exciting destination for people to visit, shop, learn, live and work in. For more information visit: www.kingstonfirst.co.uk
Check out our website for Kingston upon Thames, showcasing the best of our town with insider guides, events, news, offers and more: www.kingstonuponthames.info
Facebook: In Kingston UK Twitter: @inkingstonuk Instagram: @inkingstonuk
For more information or to arrange any interviews with Kingston First please contact shareena.merzi@kingstonfirst.co.uk
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