The Village Core Programme – Appeal for funds

Have you received a grant from the Village Core programme or advisory support to establish and run a successful community owned shop?

Does your shop generate enough profit that even a small amount could be donated to help establish new community-owned shops in villages where that essential service is no longer available or are you in a position to donate to this worthwhile project?

The Village Core Programme supports the establishment of community-owned shops in rural communities to become viable and sustainable community enterprises. The programme provides a start-up grant of between £10,000 and £20,000 per new enterprise conditional on at least equivalent contributions being raised from the village community and through a loan from Co-operative and Community Finance, a recognised Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI). 

The Village Core Programme will have enabled 96 communities to establish a community-owned shop with the grant funding that we have had available but we are now in a position where further funds must be raised to continue this essential funding and advisory package to shops. For every £20,000 raised, our grant provider, the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation will add £40,000 to the fund allowing up to six enterprises to benefit.

If you or your shop would like to support this essential service, please complete the application form below and we will contact you to make arrangements. Alternatively, for more information, please contact Donna on 01993 814377.