Suffolk Coastal's Economic Development Support Fund (EDSF) was
set up in 2009 to promote economic vitality in the district by
funding projects supporting economic growth and recovery.
The scheme, which aims to revitalise market towns and population
centres, was originally part of an overall package of economic initiatives
which were indirectly funded by the Government. It was due to
finish at the end of March 2011 but has now been extended until the
remaining amount of funding has been allocated.
Previously the funding was only available to certain market
towns and population centres but is now open to the entire district
including Felixstowe and Woodbridge, although individual businesses
are still not able to take part.
What kind of projects can be funded?
Applications for funding will be accepted from town and parish
councils and or business or community organisations with a formal
structure and terms of reference. Applications will not be accepted
from individuals or individual businesses
To be considered for funding you must demonstrate that your
project meets at least two of the following objectives:
- Improve the area as an inward investment location.
- Improve the area as a tourism destination.
- Improve the area as a retail destination.
- Strengthen local business associations.
- Contribute to town centre management.
- Improve the physical infrastructure in a town centre or
industrial estate.
- Improve local supply chains.
- Promote local food.
- Encourage collaboration between businesses to improve
profitability / share knowledge and skills.
How much funding is available?
Grants may be awarded up to 70% of total project costs. Projects
that can demonstrate a higher level of match funding will be viewed
more favourably. Match funding can be financial or in kind. You can
apply for up to £15,000 per application although higher amounts
will be considered in special circumstances where collaborative or
joint applications between towns/population centres are shown.
Application timetable
There are quarterly submission deadlines for applications:
- 30 June 2011
- 30 September 2011
- 31 December 2011
- 31 March 2012
We aim to issue offer or refusal letters within three months of
the quarterly submission deadlines.
Further information and how to apply
You will find more information about the eligibility criteria
and how to apply in guidance notes below. If you would like to
apply please print out and complete the application form and return
it to us with the supporting information we have specified.
Follow this link for help with downloading and opening PDF files.
If you would like to discuss a project, your application, or any
other aspect of the fund, please contact Sonia Lambert in the
Economic Regeneration and Development team on 01394
444625 or email
sonia.lambert@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk,