Council Says Community Projects Funding is a Success

Published on: 24 Sep, 2024
Updated on: 26 Sep, 2024

Guildford Borough Council Crowdfund Guildford initiative has been helping a number of new community projects to get up and running.

And the council is still offering the opportunity to help fund more projects this autumn. The deadline for applications has been extended until Wednesday, October 16.

Some of the projects the council has funded include:

Shalford, Chilworth, Peasmarsh Garden Club (SCPGC): GBC pledged £5,000 to help SCPGC raise funds for repairs to their Garden Club store. The store enables members to buy garden products locally, at a low cost.

The Old School Tongham Solar Optimiser: GBC provided £3,907 to this project, to help improve the current solar panel installation. It will use more of the power generated on site and help the Old School Hall become more carbon neutral.

A council spokesperson said: “Crowdfund Guildford isn’t just another funding scheme. It’s the best way to get support from us for ideas that really matter to your community. It is a chance to improve community spaces, organise local events or fix things that are important.”

The council offers two kinds of funding:

Fund one: standard projects

funding up to £5,000
suitable for small local community projects in Guildford borough
GBC will add up to £5,000 more to money raised by the project or up to 50 per cent of the total project fundraising target

Fund two: large capital projects

funding up to £25,000
ideal for big projects like putting up solar panels, fixing up community centres, or improving parks
for every pound raised by the project, GBC can give up to £25,000 more or up to 50 per cent of the total project fundraising target

Cllr Julia McShane

Council leader Julia McShane said: “Crowdfund Guildford is making a huge difference in our communities, providing support to worthy causes that deliver so much for local people.

“We want everyone to be part of and contribute to a thriving and inclusive Guildford. Our autumn round of funding is still available for ideas big or small that will make a real impact. Through Crowdfund Guildford we can make your ideas happen, so don’t miss this opportunity!

Cllr Carla Morson

Carla Morson, lead councillor for Community Servicesadded: “We know many groups are working tirelessly to support our local communities, helping to make Guildford a better place to live, work and do business. Our Crowdfund Initiative provides extra money to help make great ideas a reality.

“Whether you’re looking to fund a small or large local project, experts at Spacehive can support you throughout your crowdfunding journey.”