LEVELLING up cash will be available for Dorset businesses, community groups and organisations from next week. 

The county has been allocated more than £6 million through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

And grant applications – which will be assessed by a panel of councillors and independent reviewers – will be accepted from December 12 to January 31. 

Community groups and organisations can request between £1,000 and £15,000, while businesses can access between £2,000 and £20,000. 

It comes as part of the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda, which it says aims to reinforce community pride, empower regional leaders, and support local people.

Businesses will be expected to match 100% of their allocated funding, community groups, 10%. 

The grants for private companies must be used for technological development or commercial growth, such as the purchase of new software or measures which enable trade exports. 

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Cllr Simon Gibson, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for economic growth and levelling up, said: “I am delighted that the UK Shared Prosperity and Rural England Prosperity Fund Grant Schemes are launching, giving all community groups, organisations, and businesses in the Dorset Council area a chance to apply and make a difference across the county.

“I encourage businesses to apply for these grants to develop and further their innovation, research, and growth. 

“This is also a great opportunity for community groups and organisations to apply, enabling them to enhance their local community facilities within the towns and parishes where they live to increase the quality of life for residents.”

Full details about the grant schemes, including terms and conditions, can be found on the Dorset Council website.