Sidmouth: how crowdfunding can help attract cash from the council

If you're part of a community group that needs to raise funding, a free workshop hosted by East Devon District Council could help you get the cash.

The council offers grants of up to £10,000 to local not-for-profit organisations, provided they've managed to secure pledges equalling the same amount through crowdfunding.

But not all groups know how to go about raising money online in order to attract match funding, so the council is holding two free workshops in early September.

Councillor Jack Rowland, portfolio holder for finance, said: "I'd encourage eligible groups who are not familiar with the crowdfunding process to take advantage of one of the free workshops next month.

"By obtaining pledges to a project and reaching the target then access to a grant from East Devon District Council is available, as can be seen from the examples of successful projects."

Who's eligible to apply?

To be eligible, projects need to benefit their local communities. Those that have successfully applied for council grants include Pippins Community Centre in Axminster, the Budleigh Salterton Community Workshop project and a scheme to provide beach wheelchairs in Exmouth. Charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and town/parish councils can all apply.

The workshops will be held on Tuesday, September 7 from 9.30am to 11am and Wednesday, September 8 from 5pm to 6.30pm.

To book a place on either of the sessions, email [email protected] stating which one you want to join.

More information is available here.