Funding Application Guidance

This guidance is intended to support applications for funding from 4 Winds SCIO, who distribute community benefits from the Little Raith Wind Farm in Fife. If you have any questions before completing your application, please email 4WindsSCIO@gmail.com.

ELIGIBILITY:

4 Winds can support projects in Auchtertool, Lochgelly, Cowdenbeath, or Lumphinnans. Groups must have a constitution or set of rules, have a bank account in the name of the organization, and be able to provide either annual accounts or, for groups within their first year, a bank statement dated in the past 3 months.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept applications from groups where the main benefit will be received elsewhere, including Crossgates, Hill of Beath, Lochore, Ballingry, Cardenden, and Kelty.

WHAT WE CAN SUPPORT:

  • Any community project for public benefit which improves the quality of life for local residents.
  • Grants for equipment, clothing, materials, or other costs which help deliver the project.
  • Small capital works on property which is owned by the group (proof required).

WHAT WE WILL NOT FUND:

  • Individuals
  • Projects which are considered to be statutory (local authority, NHS, Police & other public bodies).
  • Projects outside our area of benefit.
  • Groups which have no constitution or bank account.

LEVEL OF SUPPORT:

  • There is no minimum level of funding. However, it is anticipated that the maximum level of support will not normally exceed £3,000.
  • The Trustees are prepared to fund a project completely; there is no match-funding requirement.

IF YOU ARE SUCCESSFUL:

  • You will be expected to produce proof of expenditure as part of the monitoring process, which might include copies of receipts, proof of purchase, or completion of works certificates.
  • You will be asked to take part in publicity through the local press, including photographs.
  • You should acknowledge our grant in your annual report or project updates.

AWARD DETAILS:

  • Payments will be made by cheque, so state clearly the payee details in your application.
  • The Trustees will meet quarterly to consider applications, so decisions can take up to 12 weeks.
  • Applicants will be advised of the outcome of their application as soon as possible.
  • Successful applicants will receive their award by cheque shortly after each meeting.

REPEAT APPLICATIONS:

  • Only upon satisfactory completion of one project may a second application may be submitted.
  • The same project will not normally be funded annually as a matter of course.
  • Applicants are limited to one successful funding bid per 'application year' which runs for 12 months from February to January.