Communities Matter Scheme: Terms and Conditions

Communities Matter Scheme Process - Terms and Conditions


The Communities Matter Scheme (the “Scheme”) is operated by Skipton Business Finance (“SBF,” “we,” “us,” “our”). The Scheme provides financial support to local community groups and not-for-profit organisations across the UK. By applying to the Scheme, you (“applicant,” “organisation”) agree to abide by these terms and conditions.

Eligibility
  • The Scheme is open to all UK-based not-for-profit organisations, including but not limited to:
  1. Community groups
  2. Sports teams
  3. Voluntary organisations
  4. Other local projects designed to benefit the community
  • Organisations must serve the public good and be not-for-profit.
  • Registered charities, individuals, schools, profit-making organisations, and Community Interest Companies (CICs) with shares, or CICs with a guarantee that are less than two years old, are not eligible to apply.
  • SBF reserves the right to determine, at its sole discretion, whether an organisation or its project qualifies for a grant under this Scheme.
Application Process
  • Applicants must complete the official application form available on our website. Incomplete or inaccurate forms will not be considered.
  • Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis until the annual target donation amount is reached. Submission of an application does not guarantee receipt of funding.
  • Only one application per organisation will be accepted per calendar year.
  • Successful applicants will be notified within 5 working days of approval.
Grant Allocation
  • Grant amounts start at £250 and are allocated based on the specific needs of each applicant. Larger grants may be awarded at SBF's discretion.
  • Each successful organisation is limited to one grant within a 12-month period.
  • Grants must be used solely for the purposes outlined in the application.
  • Payments will be made directly to the organisation’s bank account. The applicant must provide accurate bank details.
Restrictions
  • Grants will not be awarded for politically-motivated projects or activities.
  • Schools or school-affiliated projects are not eligible.
  • Funding cannot be used for personal expenses or profit-making activities.
  • The Scheme does not support applications from organisations with significant alternative funding sources (e.g., government funding, major sponsorships).
Review Process and Discretion
  • Applications will be reviewed by SBF’s marketing department to ensure compliance with eligibility criteria and alignment with the Scheme's objectives.
  • SBF reserves the right to approve or reject any application at its discretion.
  • SBF’s decision on all applications is final, and no appeals process is available.
Obligations of Grant Recipients
  • Recipients may be asked to provide a brief update or report on the project’s progress, including how the funds were or will be used. While this is not mandatory, we would appreciate any updates to ensure transparency and showcase the impact of the donation.
  • Although participation is not mandatory, successful applicants may be contacted by SBF to explore potential PR opportunities regarding the funded project. This could include interviews, case studies, or other promotional activities related to the grant. However, agreeing to participate in PR does not affect the receipt or amount of the donation.
Termination and Recovery of Funds
  • SBF reserves the right to terminate funding or request the return of funds if the grant is not used for its intended purpose or if false information was provided during the application process.
  • SBF may withdraw funding if the recipient organisation engages in activities that could harm SBF’s reputation.
Liability
  • SBF is not liable for any costs, losses, or damages incurred by the applicant as a result of applying for or receiving a grant.
  • The applicant assumes responsibility for complying with all legal and regulatory obligations related to the project.
Data Protection
  • By applying to the Scheme, you consent to SBF processing your personal data for the purpose of administering the Scheme. T
  • Personal data will be processed in accordance with SBF’s privacy notice.
Amendments
  • SBF reserves the right to amend or withdraw the Scheme and its terms and conditions at any time without prior notice.
Contact Information

For any questions or concerns related to the Scheme, please contact:
Sophie Brown - sbrown@skiptonbf.co.uk

Applicant Acknowledgement

By submitting an application to the Communities Matter Scheme, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these terms and conditions.