Charities encouraged to compete for dream project funding

People’s Postcode Trust today announced the launch of its biggest project yet – Dream Fund 2014.

The Dream Fund encourages registered charities, community groups, social enterprises and voluntary organisations across Scotland, England and Wales to join forces to apply for up to £250,000 funding to deliver their ‘dream’ project.

Over two years, a £500,000 funding pot will be available for projects ready to go live in 2014 and 2015. This year’s funding round opens today and closes on 20th September.

Made possible by the on-going support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the Dream Fund is now in its fourth year and has so far invested over £1 million in innovative schemes in Scotland and the North West of England. This is the first year the fund has been open to applicants across Great Britain, with the level of support rising from £100,000 to £250,000.

Kate Pearson, acting Head of Charities for People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “The launch of this year’s Dream Fund is exciting - it’s our biggest yet. Our themes for applicants are encouraging healthy living, social enterprise and environmental sustainability.

“We’re encouraging applicants to think big and be as creative as possible.

"There are many challenges being faced by the charitable and voluntary sector. That’s why we’re inviting organisations to work together to apply for a larger pot of funding.

"We believe £250,000 will really help get innovative projects off the ground and brought to life.

“Since the Dream Fund started it has grown in popularity each year with fantastic quality projects looking for funding. We’re always looking for something a bit different.”

Full application information, including eligibility criteria, can be found at www.postcodetrust.org.uk 

The closing date for applications is Friday 20 September. Shortlisted candidates will be notified in October and invited to provide a full submission.

The winners of the Dream Fund will be announced at People’s Postcode Lottery Charity Gala on 29 January 2014.