Colchester Borough Council is delighted to launch a new Cultural and Creative Events Fund.
Applications are now open for the fund, which will support creative events and activity happening across the Borough of Colchester between 1 May 2022 and 30 April 2023.
The decision has been taken to launch the fund now as an early response to the feedback the council has received during consultation work whilst developing the new Cultural Strategy for the borough. When complete, the Cultural Strategy will reflect and build upon the borough’s diverse cultural landscape. The Cultural Strategy will launch later this year and will be in place until 2030.
In total £30,000 has been made available: £20,000 from the council and £10,000 from project partner, the NHS North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group. The positive impact taking part in cultural and creative activity can have on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities is well documented. By linking up with the NHS, the council is cementing its commitment to improve residents' quality of life while supporting new cultural projects across the borough.
Only applications that can demonstrate activities will meet at least three of the following requirements will be considered for funding:
- Deliver a high-quality cultural experience to local audiences
- Develop or showcase local creative talent
- Celebrate, explore and raise awareness of local heritage
- Encourage visitors to the Borough of Colchester
- Celebrate our diverse local communities
Funding applications will be welcomed from registered charities, constituted voluntary and community organisations as well as not-for-profit groups. Applicants may request amounts between £250 and £1500 per project to support public events and activity open to all. The Fund closes to applications on 7th of February 2022.
Councillor Darius Laws, Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business and Heritage for Colchester Borough Council said: “Enabling culture and creativity to thrive across the Borough is an integral component of the new Cultural Strategy. I’m looking forward to reviewing all the applications and supporting great events throughout the coming year. It’s fantastic to be partnering with our NHS CCG in this way to ensure we can spread the benefits of creativity and culture to even more audiences and participants.”
Pam Green, chief officer of NHS North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group, added: “Participation in the arts and culture enriches people’s lives and gives a boost to mental and physical wellbeing, so we very much support this new strategy.
“Colchester has a hugely diverse and talented community and it’s with much anticipation that we look forward to receiving the applications for funding, and to help support the cultural endeavours that will make a positive difference to people’s lives across the borough.”
All applications must be submitted online through CBC’s online portal which can be found here.
Applications close 7th February 2022.
Page last reviewed: 5 January 2022