The Ashby Fund

The Ashby Fund supports a broad cross-section of projects and a wide variety of groups across Derbyshire. It aims to improve the quality of life for Derbyshire residents and tackle inequalities and disadvantages faced in local communities. Many applications taken forward to the Ashby Fund do not fit within the Foundation's other grant-making streams due to geographical or thematic restrictions, making the Ashby Fund vital in plugging funding gaps in the county. The fund supports both capital costs (equipment, refurbishment, building work) and revenue costs (ongoing running costs, one-off events and projects). There is a preference to support groups operating in rural areas or projects focusing on heritage and arts & culture. The fund operates on a rolling basis with a decision-making panel that meets four times per year. Previous grants have included support for village halls installing central heating, parent and toddler groups purchasing toys in isolated rural communities, industrial heritage walk guide booklets, mental health support group ICT training, and transport costs for disability groups. The maximum grant available is currently £2,500.