Do you have a project idea project idea or do you want to start a small business? Will your project take place in any of the target areas? If so, you may be able to apply for funding under the Catalyst Programme. Read on.

The Catalyst Programme is a funding programme which has been set up to distribute small 100% grants to local communities in the East Midlands.

The pilot project took place in 2001-02 and was funded by ESF (European Social Fund) and emda (East Midlands Development Agency) and hosted by CEFET, assisted by the East Midlands Community Foundations. The Programme has administered the Catalyst Fund which has provided small 100% grants to community projects to build local social capital. Local social capital is a technical term to describe the activity within communities that helps bind them together and prevent or solve problems. Projects can include everything from self-help groups to community-owned and private local businesses.

Local social capital funding is aimed at communities with high unemployment or facing social exclusion.

This initiative has provided small grants (typically up to £6000) to run activities which benefit local communities. To be eligible, the activity must improve the prospects of employment and community spirit in the area. Applications were invited from unemployed individuals, local community and voluntary groups, not-for-profit networks and forums, community owned businesses and some co-operatives.

Selection panels were set up from the local community which decided which projects were funded. The selection panels were given training and support throughout the process. Typical training included equal opportunities, conflict resolution, application assessing and scoring, team building and priority setting.

The programme target areas within the East Midlands (Derbyshire (1), Leicestershire (3), Lincolnshire (2), Nottinghamshire (1) and Northamptonshire (1)). In each area, there are £64,000 per year available to fund projects.

Local Fieldworkers assisted applicants with the development of ideas and completion of application forms. These application forms were designed to be simple and easy to complete and consisted of a two-sided Stage 1 application with basic questions and a more detailed Stage 2 application which was completed by the Fieldworker during a meeting with the applicant.

If you interested in becoming a member of a Community Selection Panel, contact us at catalyst@cefet.org.uk. We will forward your details to the local fieldworker. Contact us to register for information.

The Catalyst Programme is managed and administered @ CEFET, 114 Mansfield Road, Nottingham, NG1 3HL. Telephone 0115 9110466.

Alternatively you can email catalyst@cefet.org.uk