A new range of grant programmes designed to better support the city’s voluntary, community, and cultural sector have been launched by The Community Foundation.
The changes are in response to community feedback gathered through independent research carried out by The Open University, and a series of workshops.
More than 140 local organisations engaged with the research - from small groups and charities to cultural organisations and social enterprises - to explain the challenges they face and how Milton Keynes Community Foundation could strengthen its support.
Key issues raised included the need for simpler applications for smaller grants, and faster, more transparent decision-making.
In response, MK Community Foundation has launched four new programmes; Seed Grants (micro grants up to £750 with a simple, rapid process), Sapling Grants (up to £5,000), Oak Grants (larger community grants up to £15,000) and Strategic Partnership Grants (more than £15,000, offering multi-year and core funding).
“We are proud that these programmes have been shaped by the people they are here to serve,” said Ian Revell, Chief Executive of MK Community Foundation.
“The Open University research gave us a clear picture of the pressures our local voluntary sector is under, from rising demand to the need for sustainable, long-term funding.
“By listening carefully and responding, we’ve built a grant structure that is timelier, simpler, fairer and more flexible. It means we can back the vital work of our local groups in a way that really fits their needs.”
For more information visit: www.mkcommunityfoundation.co.uk
