Grassroots initiatives around central Manchester and Salford are set to be boosted courtesy of a new grant scheme,

Sir Robert McAlpine and social enterprise Semble have partnered to launch the Strong Foundations Grant, available for those that need funding or support for new ideas or existing projects, with an aim to drive positive change in the local community.

From 03 February to 01 March, organisations will be able to apply for a share of a £30,000 fund as well as access to a volunteer workforce for projects that address local needs.

Those eligible to apply for the grant include:

• Informal and formal community groups

• Local charities and local branches of national charities

• Schools and educational organisations


• Not-for-profit organisations

• Social enterprises.

Successful applications will be shortlisted and a judging panel of Sir Robert McAlpine and community representatives will decide the winning projects, to be awarded up to £3,000 each. 

Karen Brookes, Director of People and Infrastructure at Sir Robert McAlpine commented: "We are very excited to be launching this new initiative to support the local community around our existing construction work in central Manchester and Salford. We want to uncover the brilliant ideas that come from those who really understand the needs and opportunities in the local area, and I hope that we will be able to really benefit those smaller ideas that might otherwise struggle to get off the ground. The support, both financial and physical, will allow for projects to be scaled and so reach greater potential with more of the community."

Mark Shearer, Co-Founder of Semble added: "We're delighted to be working with Sir Robert McAlpine to bring this grassroots grant and volunteer offer to the communities in Salford and Manchester. The priority is to offer a quick and easy application process, which will create real impact on the ground as well as inspirational examples of what can be achieved."

Those interested in submitting an application can do so here.

(CM/MH)