Inspirational ideas to boost heritage, tourism, leisure and the local economy are being sought for rural areas.
Kelvin Valley & Falkirk LEADER is a joint initiative between East Dunbartonshire, North Lanarkshire and Falkirk Councils.
A drop-in information meeting is being held at Milton of Campsie Hall on Wednesday 26 April between 4pm and 7pm.
People are being urged to pop in and find out more about the European Union initiative, which is aimed at promoting economic and community development within rural areas.
Eligible rural communities include Twechar, Torrance, Lennoxtown, Balmore, Milton of Campsie and Kirkintilloch (north of the Forth & Clyde Canal). A postcode checker is available at www.kvfleader.org.uk
The themes of the KVF LEADER programme are:
- Heritage, Tourism and Leisure
- Community Services and Facilities
- Local Business and Employment.
LEADER is open for applications from community organisations, charities and social enterprises for projects which meet the priorities of the Local Development Strategy.
Thomas Glen, the Council's Depute Chief Executive - Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets, said, "I would encourage anyone with an interest in rural development to find out more about how to apply and unlock funding.
"There is no need to register or book - just drop in any time between 4pm and 7pm.
"The Kelvin Valley & Falkirk LEADER programme is a joint initiative to provide grants to rural communities and businesses.
"The aim is to give local residents and enterprises the chance to ensure that funding awarded within their local area meets community need.
"The programme follows a partnership-based direction to build new and experimental approaches to rural development, which aim to add economic value and make rural communities more sustainable."
Grants of between £5,000 and £125,000 are available - usually funding up to 50% of eligible project costs. Projects must have a minimum value of £10,000.
There are also schemes available for small rural businesses and farmers looking to diversify, with grants of up to £25,000 available, at up to 50% of eligible costs.
There are plans for more events this year - visit www.kvfleader.org.uk, get in touch by e-mail at info@kvfleader.org.uk or phone 01324 590712.
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