This is to promote cultural engagement and stimulate economic growth within the creative sector.
The grants range up to £20,000 per group and will provide the resources needed to help artists and cultural organisations bring their visions to life, enriching the local community and strengthening the cultural sector in Central Bedfordshire. The programme is funded by the council together with government grant funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and Bedfordshire Luton Community Foundation is administering the fund on our behalf.
A total Grow and Maintain Grant from our UKSPF Culture Fund of just over £80,000 has been awarded by us to support the following five organisations and projects:
- Flitwick Town Council – a creative heritage trail of memories of Flitwick 1930-2024 £13,770
- Ampthill Council – Ampthill Almanac year of events £20,000
- Full House Theatre (and BIGG Theatre) a creative mentorship in children’s theatre programming £19,919
- ACL Collective BIGG day out and Biggleswade library residency £13,800
- Dunton Community Gardens Arts and Community Craft Hub £15,791
Councillor Tracey Wye**,** our Executive Member responsible for the UKSPF programme, said:
We are delighted to support our local cultural and creative organisations with this funding. These grants will empower our artists and cultural leaders to create inspiring work, attract visitors, stimulate local businesses, and provide opportunities for residents to enjoy and engage with the arts.
We’re very pleased to be able to support these fantastic projects that will entertain our residents and help foster a sense of pride in our communities.