The Rural England Prosperity Fund is a government fund that has been developed to provide further support to rural areas and address the unique challenges they face. This will be achieved through the delivery of capital grants to fund suitable projects for the purposes of supporting the local economy and communities.
The aim of the Rural Fund is to help improve productivity, strengthen and benefit the rural economy and rural communities. In Tees Valley, the Rural Fund can only be used to finance capital projects for small rural businesses and communities in rural areas of Redcar and Cleveland.
The Rural Fund objectives sit within the UKSPF investment priorities for:
- Supporting Local Business
- Communities and Place
Funding rounds will take place as follows:
| Application window opens | Application window closes | |
| Round 1 | 27-10-2023 | 15-11-2023 |
| Round 2* | 11-12-2023 | 12-01-2024 |
| Round 3* | 12-02-2024 | 01-03-2024 |
Key information
Available: Now
Can I apply if my business is not trading yet? Yes
Eligible location: Identified as a rural area referenced by DEFRA magic map – available via the Tees Valley Combined Authority webpage (link below).
Award available: £3k – £15k
Funding match required: 0%
Award type: Reimbursement grant – agreed projects must be completed and paid in full before receipt of a grant award, pending approval.
This fund is administered by Tees Valley Combined Authority. For more information and to apply, please visit here.
If you are having difficulties completing your application for the Rural England Prosperity Fund and require further guidance, you can contact the Business Engagement Team for support by emailing business@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
