Digital Inclusion Fund

Grant Overview: The Digital Inclusion Fund, initiated by Suffolk County Council in collaboration with Suffolk Community Foundation, addresses digital poverty within Suffolk by offering financial support for projects aimed at enhancing digital inclusion. The fund aims to alleviate digital poverty and its consequences across various demographics, promoting social benefits such as improved access to information, enhanced employability, and reduced isolation.
Application Details and Deadlines: The fund supports both core and project costs, with a maximum grant of £25,000, although larger grants may be considered. The grant opened on November 10, 2023, and operates as a rolling programme until funds are depleted. Expressions of Interest for the second round of funding must be submitted by 5 pm on February 16. Successful applicants will be invited to submit a full application in March, with decisions expected in May 2024. Further opportunities for Expressions of Interest will be available later in the year for subsequent funding rounds, with decisions made quarterly.
Eligibility and Focus Areas: Eligible applicants include charitable and voluntary groups, faith and community groups, as well as social enterprises addressing needs within Suffolk. The fund targets specific areas within Suffolk, with a particular emphasis on Lowestoft, North East Suffolk (including areas surrounding Leiston/Saxmundham), Ipswich (areas with higher income deprivation), and rural areas within Babergh, Mid Suffolk, and West Suffolk. Priority is given to residents with lower income levels, those living with disabilities/sensory impairments, and individuals facing challenges accessing the labor market. Projects supported by the fund may encompass new initiatives, existing projects, revenue or capital costs, and core organizational overheads, allowing for full cost recovery.