Is Your Local Asset at Risk of Being Lost? Secure Up to £2 Million to Save Your Community's Local Assets

With the Community Ownership Fund (COF) entering its final round, a critical funding opportunity is being offered to safeguard cherished local assets facing closure. This government initiative empowers communities in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to take ownership of these invaluable spaces, ensuring their continued service and positive impact.

Has your community faced the potential loss of a beloved venue? Is your local pub facing the wrecking ball? Perhaps a historic building, a vibrant arts centre, or a vital sports facility is on the brink of disappearing. The Community Ownership Fund can be the solution you’ve been on the lookout for! Here are just a few ways it can help:

• Become the Stewards of Your Community: Purchase a threatened asset, like a community centre, or heritage building, and ensure it continues to serve your neighbourhood.

• Revitalise a Local Treasure: Give life to an existing community asset with essential renovations or upgrades. This could be anything from a village hall in need of a new roof to a museum requiring a modern exhibition space.

• Empower Your Community Through Business: Establish a sustainable business model for your cherished space. This could involve transforming a community centre into a cafe with event rentals, or a sports ground into a facility with pay-as-you-play options.
  

Don't let this chance slip away! While the Expression of Interest (EOI) stage remains open year-round, the second funding window opens in late May 2024.

Here's how to turn the tide and become a local hero:

1. Explore the Potential: Head over to the Community Ownership Fund website to take a look at the goals and eligibility requirements. See if your project aligns with their mission of empowering communities.

2. Get a Quick Response: Submit a brief Expression of Interest form. This is a painless process that takes mere minutes, and you'll receive a response within minutes to see if your project is on the right track.

3. Craft a Winning Application: If your project gets the green light, you can submit a full application during the bidding window. This application will detail your plans and demonstrate the lasting impact your project will have on your community.
   

Remember, vibrant communities deserve their cornerstones! Seize this opportunity to secure the future of your favourite local spaces.

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