One Manchester, a housing and community services provider in Manchester, is calling for budding local entrepreneurs across south and east Manchester to apply for £50,000-worth of social grants.

The One Manchester Catalyst Fund was launched in 2017 to back new and growing businesses as part of the provider’s social investment strategy.

Anton Schultz, social investment manager at One Manchester, said:

“Our first year of introducing the Catalyst Fund was very successful and we helped 10 businesses, from not-for-profit organisations, to catering companies, to flourish. We want to continue providing funding and support to local enterprises through this investment strategy.

“We know how many barriers there are to starting-up a new business and how difficult it can be to know where to turn for advice to take an idea to the next level. If you’re thinking about or have just started a small business and you need help with funding, please do apply and we’ll help you thrive.”

Applicants looking to develop sustainable businesses and create employment opportunities in south and east Manchester are of particular interest. One Manchester is also looking to partner with socially purposed organisations and enterprises which demonstrate potential to co-work with the housing provider.

The Catalyst Fund is available to fund start-up capital costs, development and testing costs, learning and development, and support to employ or offer paid work placements to unemployed people. Applications for the fund close on 16th November.

The Fund is free to apply for, and shortlisted applicants will be asked to attend an idea event on January 15th, where they’ll be able to present their business case to access the support and funding. Businesses must operate or seek to operate in the areas One Manchester works in, which include: Ancoats, Clayton and Bradford, Ardwick and Longsight, Gorton South, Gorton North and Levenshulme, Hulme, Moss Side and Rusholme, Fallowfield and Whalley Range.

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