Grants of up to £50,000 are now available to fund projects that will have a positive impact on businesses and communities in the rural areas of Guildford, Waverley and Tandridge.

Active businesses, charities and community groups in these areas can apply for up to 50% of capital costs for projects which create jobs or grow the local rural economy such as farm diversification, food and drink produce, business development, community cafés and shops. Applications can be made online here.

Marisa Heath, Cabinet Member for Environment at Surrey County Council said, “I’m delighted that we’re able to deliver this funding on behalf of the district and borough councils in these areas, which will benefit small businesses, charities, and community groups, helping to create jobs and grow our rural economy."

"We’re looking forward to supporting a range of projects and programmes that will enhance productivity and our rural communities, and I encourage all eligible businesses and groups to sign up.”

Catherine Sayer, Leader of Tandridge District Council said: “Really pleased to see this investment to support the growth of our rural economy. These grants offer a vital opportunity for small businesses and community groups in the Tandridge district, and I would like to encourage all eligible organisations to apply. It is a great way to create jobs, foster innovation and enhance our rural community and environment.”

Tom Hunt, Guildford Borough Council Lead Councillor for Regeneration said, “This is a great opportunity to boost economic growth in our rural areas. I’m really pleased we’re able to offer some support to the rural economy in Guildford through the Rural England Prosperity Fund. I’d urge all those who are eligible to apply to do so.”

Liz Townsend BEM, Executive Member for Planning and Economic Development at Waverley Borough Council said, “We really hope lots of businesses in Waverley will apply for this funding so we can support a range of projects to enhance the productivity of our rural communities. The new grant funding will help our businesses to thrive and create employment too – it’s a great opportunity for our small businesses, charities, and community groups so I would encourage all those who need support to deliver their plans, to apply.”

The Rural Prosperity Fund is provided via Tandridge, Guildford and Waverley District and Borough Councils, by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to support the aims of the Government’s Levelling Up White Paper and Future Farming Programme.