Community businesses in England affected by the Covid-19 crisis can apply for grants of between £10,000 and £20,000 to adapt and evolve to the changing circumstances, and to remain financially viable.

There are no restrictions on the grants; and they can be used to cover core staffing costs, contribute to meeting capital costs of adapting community businesses and ensuring that they can continue to provide the vital support to local people.

The Community Business Renewal Fund welcomes applications from organisations across the community business sector. To be considered for the Community Business Renewal Fund, you will need to demonstrate how you meet each of the following 10 criteria:

1. 1. Operating within England at a local / neighbourhood level.
   2. Meet the four key features of a community business: locally rooted, accountable to the local community, trading for the benefit of the local community and has a broad community impact.
   3. An established organisation with a track record of trading.
   4. An incorporated organisation.
   5. In a stable financial position with good prospects of viability for the future.
   6. Charitable purpose.
   7. For public benefit.
   8. Your organisation would benefit from a grant of up to £20,000.
   9. Able to spend the funds within 12 months.
   10. Subsidy control.

However, applications will be prioritised from organisations that are:
• Operating in a community that has been hardest hit by Covid-19
• Increasing diversity in the community business sector
• Supporting the growth and impact of the community business sector as a whole

There is a very short applications window as high demand is anticipated. The fund will open for applications from 10am on the 12th January 2021 until 4pm on the 19th January 2021.

Read all the guidance notes and apply HERE.

The next round for applications will be opening at 10am on Tuesday 2 March – closing at 4pm on Tuesday 9 March.

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