The RCGF “supports projects that involve local communities in delivering local regeneration in disadvantaged areas… the fund focuses on projects that engage and involve local communities and those that can demonstrate the ability to deliver sustainable regeneration outcomes” (Scottish Government website)
The Fund has four areas of focus-
- Projects that primarily focus on areas which suffer from high levels of deprivation and disadvantage;
- Projects that will deliver transformational change with strong regeneration outcomes;
- Projects and programmes which have the potential to lever in private sector investment and address long term market failure;
- Projects that demonstrate clear community involvement;
Further details, and including the application form, guidance, and FAQs, are available in the Scottish Government webpage.
In previous rounds of the Fund, the City Council – working in partnership with local organisations including housing associations, regeneration agencies and cultural organisations – secured several millions pounds for a variety of projects. In addition to the criteria above, experience from previous rounds of the RCGF have shown that successful applications meet as many of the following criteria as possible:
- Address a local need for services and/or employment;
- Support from local community organisation(s);
- Support from local elected members;
- Evidence of match funding for capital works;
- Evidence of revenue funding and a viable business plan;
- Bringing Listed buildings or other buildings of merit back into productive use.
The deadline for this first stage of applications is 2pm on Monday 10 June 2019. Note that submissions are made by the Council rather than individual organisations (projects in the Clyde Gateway area can apply through them). Scottish Government will then shortlist projects for the more detailed Stage 2 application process in the autumn (see dates below).
To allow GCC to review potential applications, and advise on improving them, we require draft applications to be submitted to us no later than 5pm, Monday 3 June.
As in previous years, GCC are expecting a significant number of applications from organisations in the city. GCC will only submit applications that are assessed as having a reasonable chance of being shortlisted, and will prioritise projects that can demonstrate viability (both in terms of delivering the capital project, and the sustainability of the project).
Projects that applied and/or were shortlisted in the previous round of RCGF will require to revise and update their application if they wish to be considered this year.
If you would like to discuss a potential submission please contact Michael.Gray@glasgow.gov.uk