Community projects and innovative business ideas could benefit from funding from Monmouthshire County Council.

A partnership between MCC and Newport City Council has allocated funding to promote rural development and drive local jobs and business growth.

The Rural Development Programme has already become popular with community groups, supporting them with specialist research, advice and help to get a variety of projects off the ground.

Funding has a particular focus on green energy, and aims to attract renewable energy projects and help cut fuel poverty and carbon footprints, with a mind on sustainability.

Projects wishing to apply must demonstrate a commitment to green values, show innovation and offer community benefits.

A film commissioned for release in September will outline support available for this sector.

Other exciting schemes include a joint bee-breeding programme with the Caerphilly and Merthyr RDPs to breed Welsh queen bees better suited to local weather and environmental conditions. 

The project will also work with schools and the community. In addition, Gareth Baker of Wye Valley Apiaries has hosted a number of workshops covering bee-keeping techniques and breeding.

 

Councillor Bob Greenland, cabinet member for innovation and enterprise said, “Funding from the Vale of Usk Rural Development Programme could be the key to launching innovative and beneficial schemes while promoting investment into our countryside communities.”

 

Do you have a business venture idea in areas of tourism, heritage, local food and drink, green energy, sustainable transport or the digital sector? If so contact the RDP team - www.valeofusk.org - to discuss any ideas.