NEW GRANT FOR CULTURAL AND CREATIVE BUSINESSES
Watford Borough Council and Watford Palace Theatre have launched the second round of funding of up to £10,000, for local creative businesses and freelancers to support their contribution to the town's cultural landscape.
To help retain talent in the town and improve creative and business skills, applications are now open for financial support grants of up to £5k, or £10k in exceptional circumstances. See this Watford Palace Theatre link.
Funded by Watford Borough Council and delivered by Watford Palace Theatre, it builds on the success of the first round of funding launched last year.
Eligibility
To be eligible, you must be a local cultural or creative business, collective, or freelancer who contributes to the town's cultural landscape.
Photo Credit: Aleksandra Warchol Photography - awarhol.com; Elected Mayor, Peter Taylor; Amma Gyan, Owner, Amanartis Studios; Megan Breen, Grants Administrator and Samantha Ford, Head of Community and Engagement, Watford Palace Theatre.
Through securing a grant, Amma Gyan, owner of Watford-based Amanartis Studios, was able to showcase the studio’s artists at a major business exhibition in London. She is now the preferred supplier to commission paintings for a 120 room hotel, to be undertaken by local artist, Jo Burrows. "The grant from the council made it possible," says Amma. "I'm extremely grateful. I hope to continue to highlight Watford and Amanartis as a destination for fine art."
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor says “Through working in partnership with Watford Palace Theatre, our Cultural Support and Development grant has made a significant difference to creative organisations in the town. Their contribution to the vibrancy of Watford, as a fantastic place to live, work and visit, is phenomenal, and we’re excited to be launching this new grant.”
Samantha Ford, Head of Community and Engagement for Watford Palace Theatre says “The first grant programme was a huge success and we’re keen to invite organisations and individuals to apply, so we can provide funding, support and guidance to enrich Watford’s cultural and creative environment.”
What can the grants be used for?
The Watford Cultural Support and Development Grants can be used to access:
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Bespoke training.
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Developmental and mentoring opportunities.
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Match funding.
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Funding to develop new products and services, live, digital or hybrid.
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Digital and other business equipment.
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Professional consultancy services.
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New markets.
How do I apply?
With a deadline for Expressions of Interest of Monday 14 October, find out more now and visit Watford Palace Theatre's dedicated page here.
