Town of Culture funding available for new activities and projects

Community groups, creative and cultural organisations now have the opportunity to apply for funding as part of Stockport’s tenure as Greater Manchester Town of Culture for 2023.

Community groups, creative and cultural enterprises, and other organisations are being invited to apply for funding to deliver activities and initiatives which give borough residents new opportunities to be active and creative as part of the programme of event taking place throughout 2023. Cultural experiences will be linked to four core themes: Stockport Moves, Stockport Makes, Stockport Sounds and Stockport Tastes.

Stockport Council has announced three funding streams for different organisations and projects to access to be part of Town of Culture activities:

1. Stockport Town of Culture Community Fund – aimed at community groups across Stockport and intended for one off projects costing up to £500.
2. Stockport Town of Culture Creative Commissions – aimed at creative practitioners, cultural organisations and venues based or working in Stockport Borough and is for programmes of activity where funding up to £5000 might be required.
3. Stockport Town of Culture Strategic Projects – a strand of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this is aimed at established cultural and creative organisations based throughout Stockport Borough and is for developing projects, initiatives and infrastructure that will have a legacy beyond Town of Culture. The projects should aim to strengthen social fabric and foster a sense of local pride and belonging. Bids for this fund are likely to be in excess of £5000

Cllr Frankie Singleton, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Leisure and Stockport Council, said:

“We want as many people as possible to benefit from our time as Town Of Culture. We have a fantastic creative and cultural community in Stockport and this is a great opportunity to help us make this a year to remember, by involving our communities and giving people a chance to be part of something special and create a lasting legacy.

“I’m delighted that we are able to offer this funding and I look forward to hearing the proposals.”

For further details of how to apply for the Town of Culture funding, visit the Stockport Council website.