Decision details

To propose the set up of a S&ELCP Crowdfunding Scheme which will maximise funds raised for community-based initiatives

That:

1. Working with Boston Borough Council and East Lindsey District Council as our partners in the South and East Lincolnshire Council Partnership (S&ELCP), a Crowdfunding scheme be established.
2. Approval be given to enter into collaborative contract arrangements with Boston Borough Council (the lead contracting party) and East Lindsey District Council to appoint ‘Spacehive’, as the external civic crowdfunding company, to provide external management of the scheme on behalf of the Councils.
3. Delegated authority be given to the Deputy Chief Executive – Communities and the Assistant Director for Wellbeing and Community Leadership, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holders across the Partnership, to agree final arrangements for the Crowdfund Scheme, including process, criteria and the awarding of grants.
4. A set up payment of £11,333 funded from the Investment and Growth Reserve be approved.
5. A Crowdfund ‘pot’ of £30,000 funded from the Investment and Growth Reserve be approved
6. A review of the benefits of the scheme be undertaken annually
7. Update report submitted to Cabinet for review after each round of funding.

Civic Crowdfunding aims to give residents and community groups the ability to attract funding from their communities, local authority and local businesses in an increasingly challenging financial environment.  Crowdfunding allows local groups to develop a community project via an online public platform and then seek additional financial support though online pledges. 

This scheme would build on the success of the Designated Councillor Budgetsscheme and the Community Lottery Scheme, allowing projects to gain further contributions from a larger pool of people and businesses via match funding.

The aim of the scheme is to support local projects and make communities stronger, more connected and more empowered by supporting projects that matter to them.  This scheme will enable the Partnership to support the priorities of the local communities.

Not to establish a partnership Crowdfunding Scheme