Looking for funding to boost your business’s impact in your community? The BrisBES Community Connector Grant could be your opportunity to make a difference.This grant supports businesses and projects that contribute to local community development within the Bristol City boundary.
About the Community Connector Grants
What Are They For?
The grants are designed to support community-focused projects in Bristol, particularly in pre-start or existing business development. Projects are especially encouraged in North, East, and South Bristol, including areas like:
Ashley, Avonmouth and Lawrence Weston, Barton Hill, Bedminster, Easton, Eastville, Filwood, Knowle, St Pauls, and many more.
For demographic-focused projects, the target audience includes:
- Women, non-binary, or agender individuals
- Young people (18–25)
- Disabled or neurodiverse individuals
- Ethnic minorities
- Refugees
Successful projects must engage communities through activities like events, workshops, or creating business hubs, while generating referrals for business support.
Previous Projects Funded:
- Developing business hubs by repurposing existing spaces
- Delivering workshops, coaching, and peer groups tailored to specific communities
- Setting up pop-up shops for small businesses
Grant Amounts and Eligible Costs
Grants of up to £30,000 are available, with projects typically ranging from £5,000–£30,000.
Eligible costs include: staffing, materials, and IT equipment.
Ineligible costs: structural building work.
Key Dates
- Applications open: 1st December 2024
- Applications close: 31st December 2024
- Successful applicants will receive grant offer letters on 15th January 2025.
How to Apply
- Download the application form here.
- Submit your completed form to us via email at westofengland@ytko.com
What Happens Next?
Applications will be scored by YTKO and Bristol City Council. Each submission is evaluated on quality and impact, with detailed feedback provided.
If successful, you’ll receive:
- A Grant Offer Letter
- Project kick-off meeting
- Regular monthly check-ins to track progress
Top Tips for a great application
Include:
- Your target audience and outreach strategy
- Planned activities (e.g., events, marketing, workshops)
- Project timeline and detailed budget
- Projected impact and number of businesses supported
Funded by the West of England Combined Authority and Bristol City Council, BrisBES supports local businesses and communities, creating jobs and boosting the economy. The programme is supported by £925,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
