Over 250 frontline third sector organisations across England will benefit from the first £1000 bursary awards made today under the Government's Real Help for Communities: Modernisation Fund, which is being delivered by Capacitybuilders. The awards aim to help frontline groups increase their impact and become more resilient to the impact of the economic downturn.
Each award buys at least two days of professional advice and support to explore how organisations can build resilience, including through working more closely with others. A second phase of the programme due to launch in the autumn will allow bursary holders to access additional funding of up to £10,000 to take further significant steps towards collaboration or merger .
These awards are the first to be made under Phase One of the Modernisation Fund Grants Programme which runs until the end of July. The funding is part of the Government’s £16.5 million ‘Real Help for Communities’ Modernisation Fund. Early indications show demand from a range of organisations serving those worst hit by the recession, particularly those providing training and employment support, debt, housing and legal advice and those working to alleviate poverty. Organisations can continue to apply for bursaries until 17 July 2009.
Minister for the Third Sector, Angela Smith commented:
“The government has acted decisively to support charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises as they help people deal with the challenges of recession. Today we have announced funding for hundreds of organisations that are considering collaboration or merger so they can access high quality advice and support to make it happen. It’s only 15 weeks since this Modernisation Fund was announced as part of the launch of the 'Real Help for Communities Action Plan ' and I’m very pleased to see the funding already delivering benefit to the sector.”
Speaking about the awards, Capacitybuilders Chief Executive, Matt Leach said:
“This first tranche of awards means we’re on track to support hundreds of frontline groups become stronger and more resilient, providing direct benefit to the communities and individuals across the country who rely on them for advice, support and services.”
http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/news/news_stories/090619_capacitybuilders.aspx