The new grants are part of a revised Biffaward “Strategy for Giving” which comes in the wake of government changes to the LTCS which saw the removal in April this year of category C and CC projects related to sustainable waste management. Instead the money for these projects has been allocated to the Waste Improvement Programme within the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The changes mean that the money available under Biffaward will shrink from about 15 million per annum to about 5 million.
For small community groups a Small Grants Scheme has been launched for those within 10 miles of a Biffa operation and who are seeking funding between 250 and 5,000. Applicants will be required to fill in a simplified form and can expect a decision on whether they will be awarded a grant within eight to 12 weeks.
Communities
A spokeswoman for Biffaward said it will be looking to award grants to project that allow communities “to help themselves, improve community facilities, restore or maintain habitats and demonstrate community involvement.”
The second new grant is the Flagship Category. This aims to support regionally or nationally significant projects that contribute to various matters. These include: “physical regeneration or new build, provide evidence of significant partnerships working, be of regional or national significance, overcome social exclusion and increase opportunity and access.”
Grants will be between 150,000 and 500,000 but applicants will have to secure 25% of the total projects from an alternative source, in addition to the standard 10% third party contribution under the LTCS.
Funding for Biffaward's credits comes from Biffa managing director Martin Bettington, chairman of Biffaward, said: “I am delighted to see Biffaward evolve in such a positive way. The principle of sustainability and sustainable development will remain at the heart of our strategy with specific focus on improving the quality of life and fostering vibrant communities.”
Details abut the new “Strategy for Giving” are available at www.biffaward.org
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