New GMCA Culture and Social Impact Fund

TODAY (Friday, October 6) marks the launch of the new Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Culture and Social Impact Fund which is set benefit residents across Greater Manchester by funding not for profit and voluntary organisations.

The new scheme was given the green light by Leaders at the GMCA meeting at Trafford Town Hall last week (Friday, September 29).

The Culture and Social Impact Fund will provide funding to properly constituted, not for profit, voluntary organisations, who are committed to providing excellent cultural experiences or work that has significant social impact across the ten boroughs in Greater Manchester.

The scheme builds on the success of the previous AGMA-run Section 48 grants fund, reflecting the priorities of the Greater Manchester Strategy, which is due to be released in Autumn 2017.

The criteria for the scheme is shaped around four main objectives. Applicants of the funding must meet at least two of these priorities;

• Contribute to the recognition of Greater Manchester locally, nationally and internationally to attract new investment, new visitors and new talent to Greater Manchester;
• Make a positive contribution to improving skills and employability of residents in Greater Manchester, including support for the creative education, expression and ambition of young people across Greater Manchester;
• Play a strong role in developing strong and inclusive communities and an improved quality of life for residents, particularly those residents at risk of disengagement or social isolation.
• Be able to evidence how the project will make a positive contribution to improving residents’ health and well-being.

The grant programme will operate over a period of two years, from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2020.

Organisations are invited to apply for up to two years of funding which will be subject to annual review. 

Councillor Cliff Morris, Portfolio Lead for Culture said: “Greater Manchester has a thriving cultural sector, from grass roots community arts groups to internationally significant cultural organisations.

“Culture is something we are very proud of in Greater Manchester, and is one of the things we do best. I hope the new scheme provides significant contribution to the wellbeing of our residents while contributing to the economic prosperity of our city region.”

The deadline to apply for a grant is Midnight, November 3, 2017.

For further information, please contact marie-claire.daly@greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk

Article Published: 14/12/2018 09:13 AM