More than 120 businesses and community groups across Tendring have applied for funding as part of the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), submitting ambitious proposals totalling over £2.6million.

With £563,028 available for the 2025/26 allocation, Tendring District Council (TDC) has begun the challenging task of selecting the projects that will have the biggest impact in terms of boosting the local economy and improving local communities.

Local organisations submitted ambitious and creative proposals across all three of the fund’s key investment priorities – communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills – before the open call closed on 1 June.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The response has been fantastic – it really shows the passion and creativity driving our local communities and businesses.

“While we can’t fund every idea, we’re excited to support projects that will make a real difference across Tendring, driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for our residents.

“Over the past three years, we’ve delivered over £1.18million in UKSPF funding, and we’re proud to keep backing ideas that boost our economy and improve the quality of life of local people.”

Applications are being scored by an independent panel made up from services across the council to ensure fairness and impartiality.

Given the high level of demand, the process will be highly competitive, and unfortunately not all applications will be successful.

However, the fund is just one part of the support available to local businesses and community groups.

TDC is currently inviting applications for the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) – a £197,761 Government fund designed to support capital projects in rural areas.

Grants of between £5,000 and £20,000 are available for rural businesses - with 25% match funding - while community groups can apply for £1,000 to £20,000 with no match funding required.

Since its launch in 2023, the REPF has already delivered over £610,000 to 51 projects across Tendring, helping businesses invest in new technologies and enabling community groups to improve local facilities. All REPF projects must be completed by 31 March 2026.

Other grants available include ‘Extend the Season’ events grants, Sports and Activity grants, and shopfront improvement grants.

In addition to funding, TDC continues to celebrate and support local enterprise through the Tendring4Growth Business Awards, which is now open for nominations. These awards shine a spotlight on the achievements, dedication, and innovation of brilliant local businesses across nine categories. Nominations close on Sunday, 29 June.

For more information on funding opportunities, events and business support, to sign up for the Tendring4Growth e-bulletin, or to nominate a business for an award, visit tendring4growth.com.