£30k fund helps growing projects take root

19/10/26

Community groups across Mid Suffolk can apply for grants of up to £30,000 to create or expand local food-growing projects thanks to a new funding scheme from Mid Suffolk District Council.

The Community Growing Fund is designed to support communities looking to establish new growing spaces or enhance existing sites where there is a clear local need.

Grants of between £5,001 and £30,000 are available to local VCFSE (voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise) organisations for the purchase of land and the development of projects such as community gardens, orchards and other food-growing spaces.

Part of the council’s broader Food and Drink Action Plan, the fund aims to increase access to locally grown food, strengthen food security and encourage more sustainable food systems.

As well as supporting food production, projects funded through the scheme will also help bring people together, improve health and wellbeing, and give residents opportunities to develop their skills and confidence in growing food.

Cllr Teresa Davis, Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “Fresh fruit and vegetables are being grown less and less in this country and we should be doing more. Community growing projects also deliver far more than fresh fruit and vegetables. They create spaces where people can meet and learn, building stronger connections with those around them.

“With the launch of this fund, we want to help communities bring their ideas into reality and make a real difference to people locally. So, if you have a place in mind, please make sure you submit an application.”

The launch of this fund follows another raft of support for food and drink producers in Mid Suffolk. The Sustainable Communities Food Fund launched in July, offering grants of up to £5,000 with a focus on community pantries and fridges, small producers, cultural venues, pubs and food banks.

Mid Suffolk District Council is also hosting a Suffolk-wide Food Summit on 16 November at the Food Museum to celebrate local food and drink production and its impact on the region’s economy.

Applications for the Community Growing Fund will be considered on a first come, first served basis. For more information about the fund and how to apply, visit the community funding page on the Mid Suffolk District Council website.