WINCHESTER City Council is looking to award further funding to rural businesses as part of its next round of Rural England Prosperity Funding (REPF).

Through the fund, which forms part of the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda, organisations can apply for between £15,000 and £40,000, with commercial businesses required to match fund their projects. 

It can support businesses that want to invest in tangible assets, such as equipment or improvements to their premises, that will help them to expand production, diversify or go green and be more sustainable. The council is also keen to hear from those who have larger projects.

Some of the projects that have already been supported include larger capacity roasting equipment for a coffee business, barn construction, a shepherd’s hut, and energy-saving measures such as solar panels and ground source heat pumps. Projects such as refurbishment of old farm buildings for tourism, or as a co-working space, could also be eligible.

READ MORE: West Meon Theatre to recreate 1937 comedy of identity, lost and found

Cllr Lucille Thompson, cabinet member for business and culture, said: “Rural organisations are hugely important to Winchester’s vibrant local economy and they play a key role in communities throughout the district.

“Our REPF grant scheme is a really significant opportunity and, with the next round of funding opening soon, I would really encourage our district’s rural organisations to apply.”

The council will open the next round of funding on March 10 and close on May 17.

For more imformation, visit winchester.gov.uk/grants-for-businesses/uk-shared-prosperity-fund or email prosperity@winchester.gov.uk.