VITAL FUNDS will be awarded to help secure the future of local projects thanks to a new Aviva Community Fund.
More than four out of five (86%) of Manchester’s local groups and charities are not confident they can secure their minimum funding target to remain active, according to research by the UK’s largest insurer, Aviva.
So their new initiative has been launched offering funding and support for inspirational local causes.
Around 360 awards are available with funding from £1,000 up to £25,000 – with the average sum needed by groups calculated at £4,834.
Jacquie Irvine of Good Values, an independent consultancy that works closely with charities and companies, said: “Local charities and community groups have a hugely positive impact on our society.
“While many are concerned about their long-term future, finding the funds to sustain themselves over the next financial year is the biggest worry. Many are working under pressure to raise funds and secure their future.
“But Aviva’s research shows that as little as £1,000 can make a huge difference to grassroots charities and community groups.”
Heather Smith, Director of Aviva’s UK Direct business, said: “Anyone in the UK can enter the Aviva Community Fund to nominate a community group, club or charity for one of 362 awards.
“The different levels of funding mean everyone has the chance to make a difference to their local community and support a cause close to their heart.”
To support the launch of the Aviva Community Fund, Aviva has produced three short documentaries by director Heidi Greensmith, who produced a BAFTA winning documentary.
The films – entitled ‘Community’ – tell the inspirational human stories of the work done by three local groups and organisations that have previously received funding from Aviva.
To view Heidi Greensmith’s Community films or submit a project for funding, simply visit www.aviva.co.uk/community-fund
Anyone can enter by submitting an idea for a project that will make a real difference to their community cause and then rallying their local community to vote for their idea.
The entries with the highest number of votes will be selected as finalists to go through to the judging phase where, if they are selected, they will be awarded funding in July 2015.
In addition, an online toolkit has been created by the Aviva Community Fund Team to provide specialist support for local groups on how to tell their stories and secure votes.
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