Wednesday 18 December 2013

Sign up for Info Engine

Info Engine - local services at your fingertips
Not already registered on Info Engine? 

We need 900 services registered by Christmas! - the tally so far is 892 and with your help we can reach this target 

REGISTER NOW  http://www.info-engine.org.uk/ and join Powys' fastest growing online directory and promote your services for FREE. 

Wednesday 11 December 2013

BBC Cymru Wales - Have You Got News for Us? Workshop Aberystwyth / Gweithdy 'Have You Got News for Us?' Aberystwyth

"Have You Got News for Us?" Do you want to get your third sector organisations stories heard but don't quite know how? BBC Cymru Wales invites you to a workshop to improve your knowledge with some stories being broadcast on BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru as a part of our 'Charity Broadcasts' project.

This is a fantastic free opportunity to meet with programme makers where they will outline what makes a good broadcast story and will help you shape your message. The half-day workshop will be held on the morning of the 8th of January at the Theatre, Film & Television Department, Parry Williams Building, Aberystwyth University, where producers from BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru will discuss the way they find stories and which elements will put your stories ahead of the rest.
It will be an interactive workshop with participants asked to describe their experiences with the media, bring forward interesting ideas that might make good stories which BBC staff will then help take to the next level. These real life examples will be used to highlight good and bad practice with some of the stories being picked up by the programme teams to be broadcast.
As some of the stories developed will be broadcast on BBC Radio Cymru, organisations must have representatives who are confident Welsh speakers and are happy to be interviewed in Welsh on the radio.
Please note: Although the person/people attending the workshop do not need to speak Welsh, you must have a senior member of the organisation (i.e. trustee, senior staff member, long term volunteer) and a case study (someone the organisation is working with now or has helped in the past) who would be capable and confident of speaking on behalf of the charity. They do not need to come to the workshop but must be willing to speak in Welsh on the radio on behalf of the charity if Radio Cymru would like to broadcast an item at a future date.
Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis, and a waiting list kept if necessary with 2 places available to each charity.
If you would like to attend, please email cerys.rees@bbc.co.uk including the details below. If you have any questions, please contact Aled Rowlands on 02920 322373.
Name:
Organisation Name
Contact telephone number:
Welsh speakers available to be interviewed if necessary? Yes/No
Oes gennych chi newyddion i ni? Hoffech chi gael storïau eich sefydliadau trydydd sector ar yr awyr ond does gennych chi ddim syniad sut? Mae BBC Cymru Wales yn eich gwahodd chi i wella eich gwybodaeth mewn gweithdy arbennig gyda'r bwriad o rai o'r straeon gael eu darlledu ar BBC Radio Wales a BBC Radio Cymru fel rhan o'n prosiect 'Darllediadau Elusennol'.
Mae'r cyfle gwych hwn yn rhad ac am ddim. Byddwch yn cwrddâ chynhyrchwyr rhaglenni a fydd yn amlinellu beth sy'n gwneud stori dda a helpu i ddatblygu a llunio'ch negeseuon. Bydd y gweithdy hanner-diwrnod yn cael ei gynnal ar fore yr 8fed o Ionawr yn Adran Theatr, Ffilm a Theledu, Adeilad Parry Williams, Prifysgol Aberystwyth, lle fydd cynhyrchwyr o BBC Radio Cymru a BBC Radio Wales yn trafod sut maen nhw'n dod o hyd i storïau a pha elfennau all wneud eich straeon fwy amlwg.
Yn y gweithdy rhyngweithiol bydd gofyn i chi ddisgrifio eich profiadau o weithio gyda'r cyfryngau a chyflwyno syniadau diddorol i staff y BBC all wneud straeon da yn eich tŷb chi. Wedyn gall staff y BBC eich helpu chi i'w datblygu i'r lefel nesaf. Bydd yr enghreifftiau yma'n cael eu defnyddio er mwyn dangos arferion da a drwg. Bydd rhai o'r straeon yn cael eu dewis gan y timoedd rhaglenni i'w darlledu.
Rhaid i sefydliadau gael cynrychiolwyr sy'n siarad Cymraeg yn hyderus, sy'n hapus i gael eu cyfweld trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg ar y radio gan y bydd rhai o'r straeon yn cael eu darlledu ar BBC Radio Cymru.
Nodwch os gwelwch yn dda: Er nad oes rhaid i'r person/bobl sy'n dod i'r gweithdy siarad Cymraeg, mae'n rhaid bod uwch aelod o'r sefydliad (e.e. ymddiriedolwr, uwch aelod staff, gwirfoddolwr hir dymor) allu siarad yn hyderus yn y Gymraeg ar ran yr elusen. Hefyd, bydd angen enghraifft o'ch gwaith (rhywun yr ydych yn gweithio gyda ar hyn o bryd neu wedi helpu yn y gorffennol). Nid oes angen iddynt ddod i'r gweithdy ond rhaid eu bod nhw'n fodlon siarad yn y Gymraeg ar y radio ar ran yr elusen yn y dyfodol os bydd Radio Cymru eisiau darlledu eitem.
Byddwn yn creu rhestr wrth gefn os bydd angen ond cyntaf i'r felin...!
Os hoffech chi fynychu, plis ebostiwch cerys.rees@bbc.co.uk gyda'r manylion isod. Os oes gennych chi unrhyw gwestiynau, yna plis cysylltwch ag Aled Rowlands ar 02920 322373.
Enw:
Enw'r Sefydliad:
Rhif cyswllt:
Siaradwyr Cymraeg ar gael i'w cyfweld? Oes / Nac oes

Thursday 28 November 2013

WALES ECONOMIC GROWTH FUND

The Welsh Government has opened the second 2013 phase of its Wales Economic Growth Fund – a £30 million economic stimulus designed to help private and social enterprises through the prevailing economic downturn.
The initiative is a short-term, fast-track fund for Welsh businesses and social enterprises, providing immediate access to non-repayable capital funding for investments that will create and retain employment opportunities, growth and wealth.
Funding allocations for 2013 are delivered two phases. Phase 1, which has now completed, provided grants of between £50,000 and £100,000 for smaller enterprises. The current phase, Phase 2, is providing grants of £100,000 and over for those enterprises requiring larger investments.
Eligible expenditure can include new investment in capital assets (machinery, computer equipment, buildings etc). Intellectual property bought from a third party, professional fees and other one off costs related to the investment may also be eligible. Additionally, revenue costs associated with the capital investment can be funded.
Wales-based organisations operating within the private and non-profit social enterprise sectors that have projects planned to improve productivity and create and maintain jobs may be eligible for support.
Expressions of Interest for Phase Two are now being invited with a deadline for submissions of 16 December 2013.
(This report was the subject of a GRANTfinder Newsflash.)

http://business.wales.gov.uk/

Tuesday 26 November 2013

PAVO Tackling Poverty Conference Report availalbe

The Annual Conference of Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations was held on Tuesday November 5th 2013 in Llanelwedd.
Its purpose was to highlight the issue of increasing poverty in Wales’ most rural county and the ways in which third sector organisations are helping to support the growing number of individuals and households who find it difficult and sometimes impossible, to make ends meet.

The conference included two addresses given by Professor David Egan, chair of the Welsh Government’s advisory panel on tackling poverty and County Councillor Melanie Davies, Powys County Council’s tackling poverty champion.

The PAVO Annual Conference Report, Tackling Poverty in Powys. A Third Sector Perspective can be viewed here.

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE

The quarterly meeting of the Mid Wales Social Enterprise Alliance was interesting yesterday.  The need to feed into the One Powys Plan consultation was identified as a priority, and we will be posting on here how you can contribute, so keep coming back to check what's happening.  We are also keen to make a response as an Alliance, so if you want to get involved, please do get in touch.

The Alliance exists to:
1. Provide a voice / lobbying function
2. Demonstrate the worth of Social Enterprise in Powys
3. Provide networking, information sharing / exchange
4. Promote trading opportunities for and between social enterprises 
5. Provide Signposting
6. Promote and support business sustainability


Meetings are held quarterly around the County.  We are very keen to expand the Alliance so if you are interested in attending, please contact Claire Sterry at PAVO:  claire.sterry@pavo.org.uk

Funding Strategy Training postponed

The Preparing a Sustainable Fundraising Strategy scheduled for 28 November 2013 has been postponed.

We are looking to re-schedule, and the date will be advertised, as soon as it is available. 

Friday 22 November 2013

Business Wales Tendering - Collaborative Working for SMEs

Business Wales Tendering - Collaborative Working for SMEs
Tuesday 3rd December 2013 - 10.30am - 2.30pm
Plas Dolerw, Milford Road, Newtown, Powys SY16 2EH

This collaborative working event will be jointly facilitated by the Wales Co-operative Centre and the Business Wales tendering advice team.

The event will focus on the necessary requirements and challenges of bidding for work collaboratively, and gaining an appreciation of how to overcome these challenges effectively.

If you wish to attend the event you can register by following the link below:
Please note booking a place is essential, as places are limited.

The Wales Co-operative Centre provides advice to businesses on suitable business models, organisational and legal structures; advice and support with governance issues; business and financial planning advice and support; finding finance and helping to access grant funding where appropriate; support with HR issues; training and mentoring; and support with developing important equalities strategies and environmental management systems.

Business Wales is the Welsh Government’s business support mechanism.  It is a dedicated service that provides businesses, social enterprises and charities with information, guidance and support directly, and from the private, public and third sector.  The service can be accessed by phone, online and through a network of eleven one stop shops located around Wales. 


For more information visit the website or contact the Welsh Government helpdesk on 03000 6 03000

Monday 18 November 2013

FUNDING STRATEGY TRAINING

Preparing a Sustainable Fundraising Strategy

28 November 2013 (full day) 

By the end of the course, participants will:
  • · understand what a sustainable funding strategy is and why they need one
  • · learn how to explore and extend their fundraising options
  • · be able to construct a realistic and sustainable fundraising strategy
To book click here

Skype session 21-11-2013

Would you like to attend one of our outreach sessions, but find it hard to attend? PAVO is introducing regular Skype sessions, where you can take the opportunity to chat with a Development Officer about your queries.
The first session will take place on: 21 November 2013 - 11.00am - 2.00pm 
The Skype name to contact us upon is: pavo.development 

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE

The Next meeting of the Mid Wales Social Enterprise Alliance will take place on :


  • Monday 25th November 2013
  • 10.30am
  • PAVO Offices, Ddole Enterprise Park 
If you wish to attend, please contact Claire Sterry at claire.sterry@pavo.org.uk

Communities 2.0 support for Social Enterprise

Are your existing computers outdated?
Could ICT investment help you to be more efficient?
We may be able to help with finance.

Communities 2.0 is a Welsh Government programme which helps people and small enterprises make the most of ICT and the internet. We’re here to help social enterprises in Wales benefit from digital technology. Much of our funding for this work has come from the European Regional Development Fund. The Wales Co-operative Centre is the lead delivery partner on Communities 2.0.

You will need to be:

A registered social enterprise
With a business plan
Match funding for the investment would be an advantage
What happens next?

You contact us for an initial discussion
We carry out an ICT review to determine your needs
If you are eligible, we go through a simple application process to approve funding
We provide you with follow-up support as required
For further information please reply to this email.

http://www.communities2point0.org.uk/ict-for-enterprises-groups-and-organisations


Friday 4 October 2013

CHILDREN IN NEED SURGERY 11-10-2013 POSTPONED

The Children in Need surgery scheduled for Friday 11th October, has been postponed.  We are hoping to get a new date for 2014 in due course.

If you have any enquiries in the meantime please contact PAVO on 01597 822191. Thank you

Tuesday 1 October 2013

BEACONS CREATIVE NAMED SOCIAL ENTERPRISE / CHARITY OF THE YEAR 2013

The Powys Business Awards 2013 took place last week.

The Social Enterprise / Charity Award, sponsored by Mid Wales Housing Association Ltd, went to Beacons Creative Wales Ltd of Brecon, which is in the process of expanding to increase the number of disabled people employed to 63.

Beacons Creative (Wales) Limited is a unique social firm producing candles and related products whilst providing employment opportunities for people with learning difficulties and those furthest from the workforce. Born out of an eleven year day care service provided by Powys County Council, Beacons Creative, with the help of Social Firms Wales, was externalised in June 2009 to become a company limited by guarantee. The Company's objective is to develop sales, create new products, provide employment opportunities for service users within a safe and caring environment, and transform this day care service into a successful and profitable business.

Congratulations to everyone at Beacons Creative on this award.

Wednesday 25 September 2013

Broadband Support Scheme

The Welsh Government has confirmed the final deadline for applications to its Broadband Support Scheme is 30 September 2013.
The scheme is designed to reduce the number of rural areas of the country without broadband internet. It enables individuals and communities in Wales' remaining broadband 'not-spots' to approach service providers directly, with support of Government funding.
Support is available for up to a maximum of £1,000 for individual premises, covering up to 100% of costs.
The scheme is technology neutral and the Welsh Government does not favour any particular type of technology; however, examples of the types of broadband solutions that could be supported include:
  • a broadband satellite connection installed for the home or business;
  • a community purchasing a 'larger scale' satellite connection which is distributed around the village by a small wireless network;
  • a wireless network being delivered by a service provider across a community; and
  • a community purchasing a next generation broadband service such as Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC).
Individuals, communities, small to medium-sized businesses and third sector organisations in Wales may apply.

Thursday 12 September 2013

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE

The next meeting of the Mid Wales Social Enterprise Alliance will take place on:

  • Monday 30th September 2013
  • Ashfield Community Enterprise, Howey, Llandrindod Wells
  • 10.30am
If you would like to attend, please contact Claire Sterry on 01597 822191.

Hope to see you there! 

#SOCIAL SATURDAY 21- 9 - 2013

21st September 2013 is the first ever social saturday (#socialsaturday), a day to celebrate consumer facing social enterprises in Wales, the quality goods they offer and the contribution they make to their communities. It is part of the wales co-operative centre’s ‘go full circle’ campaign to raise awareness of consumer facing social enterprises and encourage more people in wales to buy from them.

http://supportsocialenterprise.org.uk/blog/

(Wales Co-operative Centre)

Wednesday 28 August 2013

CHILDREN IN NEED SURGERY - 11-10-2013


BBC Children in Need are coming to PAVO's Llandrindod Wells Office on FRIDAY 11TH OCTOBER to hold a funding surgery.
BBC Children in Need supports stable, well-managed, and effective organisations that work with disadvantaged children and young people aged 18 years and under living in the UK (groups that work with people of all ages may also apply as long as the project is focused on work with those aged 18 and under). Disadvantaged children and young people include those affected by:

  • illness, distress, abuse, or neglect;
  • any kind of disability;
  • behavioural or psychological difficulties;
  • living in poverty or situations of deprivation.


For more information on getting an appointment please contact Claire Sterry on 01597 822191.

Social Enterprise on a Shoestring

Here's an interesting article about starting a social enterprise on a shoestring:

http://www.theguardian.com/social-enterprise-network/2013/aug/21/starting-social-enterprise-on-shoe-string?CMP=&et_cid=46269&et_rid=571262&Linkid=how+to+start+a+social+enterprise+on+a+shoestring

Thursday 22 August 2013

NOMINET TRUST WEBSITE GRANT

We are delighted to invite you for the next round of website funding, made possible by the Nominet Trust. If successful, you will provide between £14,400-72,000 funding per charity dependent on the size of the charity to revamp websites or create microsites.
Applications are accepted for funding on a rolling basis and will be accepted no later than 5.30pm on the 23rd September 2013.
To apply you must meet the following criteria:
  1. You are a registered charity with the charities commission and your annual income is over £1m.
  2. You are frustrated by your current website and it is causing challenges or preventing you from achieving goals.
  3. You are currently raising money from individuals as a significant income stream, or plan to be, and want to raise more online.
(Source:  Raising IT)

Monday 19 August 2013

PAVO OUTREACH SURGERY - Ystradgynlais

Do you need some funding support?  Have you got an issue around governance?  Would you like to discuss potential project ideas?  Would your organisation like a health check?

Come along at meet with PAVO Development Officers on the following dates:
·       17th September  2013                    Ystradgynlais   10 – 3pm       Communities First Office

To make an appointment please contact Communities First Ystradgynlais on 01639 845051 to book a place.


We will be working our way round Powys, so watch this space for details of further events.  We hope to see as many of you as possible.  Don’t delay, book today!

EQUALITY AND INCLUSION GRANT 2014 - 17

The new Equality and Inclusion Grant 2014-17 is now open for applications from third sector organisations.
The Welsh Government is inviting charities and third sector groups to apply for up to £1.6 million of funding for projects that tackle inequality and discrimination and help make Wales a fairer place.
The deadline for applications is midnight Thursday 31 October 2013. The application form, guidance and information about workshops can be downloaded below.
For organisations that require further information about the application form, please contact: FairerFuturesMailbox@wales.gsi.gov.uk.
(Source: Welsh Government)

Wednesday 14 August 2013

WALES AFRICA COMMUNITY LINKS FUND

The autumn 2013 funding round of Wales Africa Community Links (WACL) Organisational Development Grants - Africa Links programme has opened to applications.
Grants of up to £2,000, £4,000 and £5,000 are available to voluntary, community-based and civil society organisations (including social enterprise and ethical trade) in Wales to develop partnership links with community-based organisations in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The deadline for applications is 16 September 2013 (11.59pm).



(Source: Grant finder) 

Wednesday 7 August 2013

Powys Youth Theatre Development Scheme

The Powys Youth Theatre Development Scheme 2013/14 is now open for applications from groups delivering or planning Youth Theatre activity in Powys during 2013/14.
If you are interested in applying to the scheme or wish to discuss whether your project is eligible, please contact Lucy Bevan Senior Arts Officer, Powys County Council, to request an application form by emailing arts@powys.gov.uk or telephoning 01597 824444.

Please note the deadline for application submissions is 16 September 2013.

Click here for guidelines 

Tuesday 6 August 2013

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE (MWSEA)

This newly formed Alliance has been formed in order to:
1. Provide a voice / lobbying function
2. Demonstrate the worth of Social Enterprise in Powys
3. Provide networking, information sharing / exchange
4. Promote trading opportunities for and between social enterprises 
5. Provide Signposting
6. Promote and support business sustainability

Quarterly meetings are held at a different host Social Enterprise, with them holding the post of Chair.  PAVO provides co-ordination support to the Alliance.  The first meeting held in March, was productive, with members present already identifying how they can support each other.  You can also follow MWSEA on Facebook between meetings: MidWalesSocialEnterpriseAlliance.

If you wish to join the Alliance, please contact Claire Sterry on 01597 822191. 

People's Postcode - Dream Fund

Funding is available for organisations in Scotland, England and Wales to deliver the project they have always dreamed of, but never had the opportunity to bring to life.
Organisations are encouraged to collaborate to provide a more efficient service. All applications must, therefore, come from at least two organisations that have joined forces. One of these organisations must be a registered charity, who will be considered the lead organisation for the project. The other organisations can be another charity, a voluntary group, a community interest company or a social enterprise.
Organisations can apply for grants of between £100,000 and £250,000 to deliver an innovative, creative and original project that will last up to 24 months. Projects must meet one of the following funding criteria:
  • Encouraging Healthy Living - promoting positive outcomes in people’s health, fitness and wellbeing by encouraging people to be more healthy and active in their daily lives. The Trust is looking for visionary projects that offer long-lasting and innovative solutions to the advancement of health and wellbeing amongst local communities. Applications which focus on involving children and young people in healthy living are particularly welcome.
  • Social Enterprise - the winning project will seek to address social and environmental challenges in innovative and sustainable ways and will provide a compelling long-term vision beyond the original duration of funding. The Trust is especially interested in projects that provide greater life opportunities for people.
  • Environmental Sustainability - the winning project will involve, engage and inspire local communities to live in a more environmentally sustainable fashion. Applications from projects that seek to reduce carbon emissions and that can be used as a template for others to follow are especially welcome.
The deadline for applications is 20 September 2013.
(This report was the subject of a GRANTfinder Newsflash.)

Thursday 18 July 2013

OUTREACH - LLANDRINDOD - 31-7-13

Do you need some funding support?  Have you got an issue around governance?  Would you like to discuss potential project ideas?  Would your organisation like a health check?
Come along at meet with PAVO Development Officers on the following dates:

·         Wednesday 31st  July 2013    Llandrindod Wells                10 – 3pm      PAVO Offices


To make an appointment please contact PAVO on 01597 822191.

Tuesday 2 July 2013

Local Social Enterprise recognised as one of the top 20 in the UK.

Robert Owen Community Banking has been selected by the Transition Town Network as one of the top 20 best examples of social enterprise in the UK.

They are "one of the best examples of sustainable, socially conscious, resilience-building, wealth and power sharing, financially viable and HIGHLY REPLICABLE ways of doing business".

Congratulations!

Wednesday 19 June 2013

Santander Social Enterprise Development Awards

The Social Enterprise Development Awards aim to recognise and support social enterprises and Community Interest Companies in the UK that are working to grow their business and improve their local community.
This year the total amount of prize money is £2.3 million. This will be split evenly across eight region of the UK: London and the South East, South West, Midlands, North East and North West, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Each region will get £280,000 which will be divided into seven awards for the £10,000 prize; eight for the £20,000 and one for the £50,000 award.
In addition to the funding, the winning social enterprises will receive a business support package from Santander including fully-funded internships, business webinar presentations, consultancy days and the opportunity to network with other enterprises and small businesses
Social Enterprises and Community Interest Companies can apply as long as they:
  • Have been established and trading for two or more years.
  • Have an aspiration to grow their business.
  • Have a turnover of less than £1 million per year.
  • Can provide two years of management or audited accounts upon request.
  • Are generating at least 50% of their income from trading activities.
  • Have a business that directly benefits their community in one or more of the following ways:
    • Improving social inclusion.
    • Supporting training, skills and employment.
    • Creating a greener environment.
To enter the competition, social enterprises should complete a short entry form downloadable from Santander's website (opens new window) detailing how an award would be used to grow their business to benefit the community.
Entries will be accepted until 1 July 2013. The winners will be announced in September 2013.
Source: Santander, 03/06/2013

Fund101 re-opening this week

Reopening this week, Fund101 targets UK-based entrepreneurs looking to turn an idea into a new business and existing small companies wishing to purchase equipment to help take their enterprise to the next level.
Administered by Enterprise Nation, the programme is designed to assist those who are looking for relatively small amounts of capital support. The initial funding pool is £50,000 and this will be topped up each month with an additional £5,000. Individual grants ranging from £50 to £500 can be requested. Fund101 winners will also receive up to $500 of Elance credit to spend on outsourced work.
The grants can be used to fund miscellaneous capital costs associated with starting up a new venture and for existing small businesses to purchase equipment, promotional flyers, hardware etc, in order to boost their operations.
UK-based start-ups looking to commence trading and those who are already in business and need funding to further their enterprise may be eligible for assistance through Fund101.
To apply, entrants must complete an online application, explaining how much money they require and for what purpose. They must then raise an equivalent number of votes to the grant they are seeking – if they need £100, they must engage 100 people to vote for them online.
When the target is met, the funds will be deposited into the successful candidates' PayPal accounts. Grant recipients must agree to be profiled on the Fund101 webpage to explain how the grant has benefited their business.

The programme closes in November. Meanwhile, applications will be accepted with monthly deadlines. The next deadline is 24 June 2013.
(Source: Grantfinder)

Welsh Language Technology and Digital Media Fund

The Welsh Language Technology and Digital Media Fund has been established to provide grants for projects that encourage activities aimed at promoting the use of the Welsh language, through technology and digital media. The scheme's main focus areas are:
  • Raising awareness of, or promoting the use of, Welsh language software, applications, online services, content creation tools – and Welsh language digital content.
  • Supporting the development of Welsh language software and digital services available online.
  • Increasing the amount of digital content available in Welsh online.
The programme has an indicative budget of £150,000 available to be awarded during 2013-2014. Individual grants will usually range from a minimum of £5,000 to a maximum of £50,000 per application; however, bids for smaller or greater amounts can be considered.
Examples of activities that are eligible for support include:
  • Development of Welsh-language software applications (apps) for a variety of platforms, including mobiles/smartphones, tablets, PCs and internet-enabled- televisions.
  • Training initiatives and coding courses, including training for young people.
  • The development of text-to-speech, voice recognition, e-publishing, machine translation and translation memory technologies.
Applications will be accepted from voluntary and community sector organisations, charities, social enterprises, private sector businesses and public sector bodies located in Wales. Bids involving a consortium of the aforementioned organisations may also be accepted.
Applications must be submitted in electronic form to mewnflwch.grantiau@wales.gsi.gov.uk by midday on Friday 26 July 2013. Following this, hard copy applications must be received Wednesday 31 July 2013.
(This report was the subject of a GRANTfinder Newsflash.)

Monday 17 June 2013

Outreach Session 26-6-2013

Do you need some funding support?  Have you got an issue around governance?  Would you like to discuss potential project ideas?  Would your organisation like a health check?
Come along at meet with PAVO Development Officers on the following dates:

·         Wednesday 26th June 2013    Newtown                10 – 3pm      Plas Dolerw


To make an appointment please contact PAVO on 01597 822191.

Wednesday 12 June 2013

Santander Social Enterprise Development Awards

This award is available for established social enterprises which have at least 50% of their total income generated from trading activities

There are 16 awards to be made, linked to turnover:
1 x £50,000 awards for social enterprises with a turnover of £250,000 - £1,000,000
8 x £20,000 awards for social enterprises with a turnover of £100,000 - £250,000
7 x £10,000 awards for social enterprises with a turnover of up to £100,000

The deadline to apply is July 1st 2013 at 5pm.  Applications can be made by visiting the website:http://www.cfiw.org.uk/grants.html#SEDA and following the relevant link.

Monday 10 June 2013

Fund101 Reopens Offering £1,000 a Month to New Businesses (UK)

Reopening this week, Fund101 targets UK-based entrepreneurs looking to turn an idea into a new business and existing small companies wishing to purchase equipment to help take their enterprise to the next level.
Administered by Enterprise Nation, the programme is designed to assist those who are looking for relatively small amounts of capital support. The initial funding pool is £50,000 and this will be topped up each month with an additional £5,000. Individual grants ranging from £50 to £500 can be requested. Fund101 winners will also receive up to $500 of Elance credit to spend on outsourced work.
The grants can be used to fund miscellaneous capital costs associated with starting up a new venture and for existing small businesses to purchase equipment, promotional flyers, hardware etc, in order to boost their operations.
UK-based start-ups looking to commence trading and those who are already in business and need funding to further their enterprise may be eligible for assistance through Fund101.
To apply, entrants must complete an online application, explaining how much money they require and for what purpose. They must then raise an equivalent number of votes to the grant they are seeking – if they need £100, they must engage 100 people to vote for them online.
When the target is met, the funds will be deposited into the successful candidates' PayPal accounts. Grant recipients must agree to be profiled on the Fund101 webpage to explain how the grant has benefited their business.
The programme closes in November. Meanwhile, applications will be accepted with monthly deadlines. The next deadline is 24 June 2013.
(Source: Grantfinder)

POWYS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2013 OPEN FOR NOMINATIONS

Do you know someone who has proved an inspiration to others through their volunteering?
Is there a group or organisation that you know of that has made a real difference to the community through their volunteering activity?
Is there someone that has made an outstanding contribution over the years that you feel deserves recognition?
Why not nominate them for a Powys Volunteer Centre "Powys Volunteer of the Year" award.
Closing date for applications is Friday 28th June 2013
For more information and a nomination form click here.

Wednesday 5 June 2013

Charity trading arm tips

An interesting article detailing the top tips for charities looking to build a trading arm:

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE (MWSEA)

This newly formed Alliance has been formed in order to:
1. Provide a voice / lobbying function
2. Demonstrate the worth of Social Enterprise in Powys
3. Provide networking, information sharing / exchange
4. Promote trading opportunities for and between social enterprises 
5. Provide Signposting
6. Promote and support business sustainability

Quarterly meetings are held at a different host Social Enterprise, with them holding the post of Chair.  PAVO provides co-ordination support to the Alliance.  The first meeting held in March, was productive, with members present already identifying how they can support each other.  You can also follow MWSEA on Facebook between meetings: MidWalesSocialEnterpriseAlliance.
The next meeting will be held on Monday 24th June 2013 at 10.30am.  We will be looking at marketing and mentoring.


If you wish to join the Alliance, please contact Claire Sterry on 01597 822191.  We are also looking for a social enterprise in Llandrindod Wells to host the meeting.  Please get in touch if you would like to do this.

Friday 24 May 2013

JUNE OUTREACH SESSIONS


Do you need some funding support?  Have you got an issue around governance?  Would you like to discuss potential project ideas?  Would your organisation like a health check?
Come along at meet with PAVO Development Officers on the following dates:
·         Wednesday 12th June 2013    Llandrindod Wells   10 – 3pm      PAVO Offices
·         Wednesday 26th June 2013    Newtown                10 – 3pm      Venue TBC
To make an appointment please contact PAVO on 01597 822191.
We will be working our way round Powys, so watch this space for details of further events.  We hope to see as many of you as possible.  Don’t delay, book today!

How charities can trade successfully

Here's an article that may be of interest:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/voluntary-sector-network/2013/may/20/charities-trade-successfully-entrepreneurial

Wednesday 15 May 2013

Canmol Wales Marketing Awards


The Canmol Wales Marketing Awards are a celebration of excellence in ideas and execution in marketing among companies and not-for-profit organisations in Wales.
Winner will each receive a trophy, a winners' certificate, a bottle of champagne and a day's free consultancy provided by Glamorgan Business School.  Winners will also benefit from significant PR opportunities that arise from winning a Chartered Institute of Marketing Award. Additionally one of the winners will be selected for free entry into the Institute's UK Marketing Excellence Awards.
The 2013 Categories comprise:
  • Construction, engineering, manufacturing including automotive.
  • Arts, heritage and creative industries (including printing, media, publishing).
  • Education and training.
  • Technology and energy (including alternative energy & other low carbon technologies).
  • Professional services including financial services, banking, investment, insurance and other services.
  • Food, drink, retail and FMCG.
  • Life sciences (including pharmaceutical, health service providers, medical suppliers).
  • Social economy (including public sector, charity, third sector and ‘not-for-profit’ enterprises).
  • Tourism, hotels, leisure, place & destination marketing, travel and transport.
Individual Awards
  • Outstanding Contribution.
  • New Marketer of the Year.
The awards are open to everyone, from sole traders to multinational companies.  Entrants should be located in Wales.
The entry deadline is 31 July 2013.
(Source: Grantfinder)

HLF - Heritage Enterprise


Grants of between £100,000 and £5 million are available for heritage projects that have the potential to unlock a heritage asset in need of investment and utilise it as a stimulus for economic growth. It is anticipated that in most instances this will involve the repair and adaptation of a historic building or a coherent group of historic buildings for an end-use that generates a sustainable commercial income.
Not-for-profit organisations and partnerships led by not-for-profit organisations in the UK are eligible to apply. Not-for-profit organisations can include the following:
  • Community or voluntary groups.
  • Community Interest Companies.
  • Charities and trusts.
  • Social enterprises.
  • Community/parish councils.
  • Local authorities.
  • Other public sector organisations.
Private sector for-profit organisations are encouraged to participate but are required to be minority partners in a partnership that is led by a not-for-profit group.
Priority will be given to projects that are located within areas of the UK experiencing economic disadvantage.
Applications may be submitted at any time.
(This report was the subject of a GRANTfinder Newsflash.)

Friday 3 May 2013

Bridges Social Impact Bond Fund - new fund launched


Investments of up to £3 million are available to provide charities and social enterprises based in the UK with a sustainable source of capital and support, allowing them to focus on delivering crucial social outcomes-based programmes that will benefit society as a whole.
Programmes should be designed to improve social outcomes in areas such as education, employment, housing and care for vulnerable young people. The investments can facilitate the funding of early-stage, preventive interventions which are more effective and cost-efficient than treating social issues after they have arisen.
Organisations must have:
  • A clear social mission.
  • A strong management team.
  • The ability to deliver highly impactful social interventions.
  • The ability to robustly monitor and proactively manage the social outcomes delivered by these programmes.
Interested organisations should contact Bridges Ventures by email to discuss their programme.
(Source: Grantfinder)

Tuesday 30 April 2013

Bridging the fundraising generation gap

Here's an interesting article about how charities can bridge the fundraising generation gap:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/voluntary-sector-network/2013/apr/24/charities-fundraising-generation-gap

HLF - Heritage Enterprise Fund launched


Grants of between £100,000 and £5 million are available for heritage projects that have the potential to unlock a heritage asset in need of investment and utilise it as a stimulus for economic growth. It is anticipated that in most instances this will involve the repair and adaptation of a historic building or a coherent group of historic buildings for an end-use that generates a sustainable commercial income.
Not-for-profit organisations and partnerships led by not-for-profit organisations in the UK are eligible to apply. Not-for-profit organisations can include the following:
  • Community or voluntary groups.
  • Community Interest Companies.
  • Charities and trusts.
  • Social enterprises.
  • Community/parish councils.
  • Local authorities.
  • Other public sector organisations.
Private sector for-profit organisations are encouraged to participate but are required to be minority partners in a partnership that is led by a not-for-profit group.
Priority will be given to projects that are located within areas of the UK experiencing economic disadvantage.
Applications may be submitted at any time.
(Source: Grant Finder)

Centre for Social Action Innovation Fund Open


The Centre for Social Action Innovation Fund is a £14 million fund run by the innovation charity National Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts (NESTA), working in partnership with the Cabinet Office.
The first round runs from April until October 2013, and will support innovative ventures and programmes that use social action to achieve impact in the following areas:
  • Ageing well: Helping people to age well, particularly by supporting people over 50 years to have a purpose, a sense of well-being and to be connected to others.
  • Long-term health: Enabling people with long-term health conditions to have a better quality of life, particularly through the use of peer to peer networks and groups.
  • Young people: Supporting and encouraging young people to succeed and find employment, for example through mentoring, coaching, and peer-to-peer networks.
  • Impact volunteering: Using new approaches to ‘impact volunteering’ to mobilise volunteers to increase and enhance the outcomes achieved by public services.
Charities, social enterprises, public services and for-profit businesses can apply for grants of between £50,000 and £500,000 to support projects that deliver public benefit. In most cases match funding will be required.
Applications can be made at any time via an Expression of Interest form.
The programme will run for the next two years, and will open to applications as NESTA identifies different priorities.

(Source: Grantfinder)

Monday 22 April 2013

Need help filling in funding applications?


In addition to our FREE Funding advice & support, PAVO's accredited funding advisors will also complete your application for a charge.  Very competitive and affordable rates. 
Interested? Want more information?  

Contact us at the PAVO Helpdesk: 0845 009 3288

Thursday 18 April 2013

Switch to alternative funding

Interesting article about alternative sources of funding:

http://socialenterprise.guardian.co.uk/social-enterprise-network/2013/apr/16/alternative-forms-social-enterprise-funding

(Source: Guardian Voluntary Sector Network)

MID WALES SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ALLIANCE - MEETING

The next meeting of the Mid Wales Social Enterprise Alliance will take place on Monday 29th April 2013, at Mid Wales Arts, Caersws, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm.

The objectives of the Alliance are to:

This newly formed Alliance has been formed in order to:
1. Provide a voice / lobbying function
2. Demonstrate the worth of Social Enterprise in Powys
3. Provide networking, information sharing / exchange
4. Promote trading opportunities for and between social enterprises 
5. Provide Signposting
6. Promote and support business sustainability


To confirm your attendance, contact Claire Sterry on 01597 822191 or e-mail claire.sterry@pavo.org.uk

Postcode Lottery Green Challenge Open


The Postcode Lottery Green Challenge is a contest that rewards inventions that successfully combine sustainability, entrepreneurship and creativity. The jury looks for products and services that contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle, directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and score highly on convenience, quality and design.
The competition aims to elicit promising, creative ideas that will encourage and aid the invention of great new green products and services and combat CO2 emissions and can be put on the market within two years. Since its inception, the programme has helped to reduce more than 10 million kilograms, (10,000 tonnes) of carbon emissions in the UK.
The first prize is for more than £440,000 (€500,000). It will be presented to the entrant with the best idea to execute his or her business plan. A further £175,000 (€200,000) will be available to one or two runners up.
The prizes, together with the assistance from leading professionals, will enable the winners to develop their inventions and present them to the world within the next two years.
Would-be entrepreneurs aged 18 years or older with a well-thought-out idea are invited to participate in the Green Challenge, which is open worldwide.
Each entrant must submit his or her business plan in one of the following five categories:
  • Energy
  • Lifestyle
  • IT
  • Design
  • Mobility
The 2013 deadline for receipt of applications is 17 July 2013.

Thursday 11 April 2013

Thursday 4 April 2013

Speak Up Film Fund 2013


The Community Film Unit is a social enterprise film company. Through its Speak Up Film Fund, it offers 50% match funding towards the cost of making a film that focuses on local community issues in 2013.
Not-for-profit organisations, including charities, social enterprises and voluntary organisations, in the UK can apply for funding support to help make a film about one (or more) of the following:
  • Supporting young people and/or vulnerable people.
  • Preserving local history and educating residents about their area.
  • Providing and documenting opportunities for disabled people.
  • Providing information which improves the quality of life for residents in their local community.
Applicants must have the capacity and resource to complete the project during the 2013 calendar year.
Grants can cover 20% to 50% of the project costs, and they will range from a minimum of £724 to a maximum of £2,225. The average grant is £1,120.
Funding is only available for the following packages:
Four Amethyst Packages which include:
  • 1 filming day.
  • 2 editing days.
  • CFU library music.
  • 5 copies packaged in plastic wallets.
  • Maximum of 6 minute film.
One Emerald Package which includes:
  • 3 filming days.
  • 5 editing days.
  • Original music.
  • 50 DVDs with on body print.
  • Packaged in 50 card sleeves.
One 1 Ruby Package which includes:
  • 5 filming days.
  • 8 editing days.
  • Original music.
  • 100 DVDs with on body print.
  • Packaged in 100 DVD jewel cases or card digipacks.
Applications will only be accepted electronically and can be found on the Community Film Unit website.

(Source: Grantfinder)