Welsh Government Enhances Circular Economy Fund Due to COVID-19 Challenges

Welsh Government Enhances Circular Economy Fund Due to COVID-19 Challenges

The Welsh Government and WRAP Cymru realise that many organisations are facing significant challenges resulting from coronavirus (COVID-19). In response, changes have been implemented to the £6.5 million Circular Economy Fund, which are designed to support even more organisations and more quickly.

In addition to funding the use of recycled materials in products, WRAP Cymru is now able to support preparation for re-use, refurbishment and re-manufacturing activities in Wales. These include the production of sustainable goods to aid the global fight against coronavirus.

Manufacturing products containing recycled content and extending the useful lifetime of products is central to the achievement of a circular economy. The Circular Economy Fund is helping to accelerate Wales’ shift towards this, whilst facilitating business growth and the creation of new jobs. Its purpose is to enable capital investment in keeping resources in use for as long as possible, instead of being incinerated or going to landfill, and to drive demand for secondary materials.

Eligible projects must:

Increase the use of recycled plastic, paper/card or textiles in existing or new products (those seeking to use other recycled materials will be considered on a case-by-case basis) OR:

Extend the life-time of products/materials through preparation for re-use, refurbishment or re-manufacturing activities.

Organisations of any size, which are operating in Wales, may apply for a capital grant to invest in infrastructure and equipment for eligible circular activities. Small Scale grants are now available from £6,000 to €200,000 (the maximum de minimis threshold) and Large Scale grants are available from €200,000 to £750,000.

The next deadline for Small Scale Grants is 1 June 2020 and for Large Scale Grants; 11 June 2020.

More information about this funding opportunity and the application process is available on the GRANTfinder funding information platform. GRANTfinder provides up-to-the minute content, insight and analysis on funding news. To find out more about how GRANTfinder can keep you in the know, and subscription fees, contact us today.