A new fund established to support community projects has been launched.

The Island Community Fund, managed by Manx Lottery Trust, will consider applications for community projects which demonstrate a clear commitment in line with the Island’s UNESCO Biosphere recognition.

Grants of between £300 and £25,000 are available for projects which benefit communities and the lives of people across the Isle of Man, and support at least one of the following areas:

- Conservation

- Development

- Learning

You can apply if you are a registered charity, voluntary or community organisation, town or parish council, school or social enterprise.

Applicants must evidence match funding in line with the following requirement:

- Charities - 30 per cent / MLT - 70 per cent

- All other organisations - 50 per cent / MLT 50 - percent

Manx Lottery Trust Chairman, Sarah Kelly, said: ‘This new fund is a welcome addition to the Manx Lottery Trust Grant Scheme and we are delighted that Isle of Man Treasury has entrusted distribution to us.’

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said: ‘The Isle of Man Government has made available £250,000 to assist the development of community-driven projects that are in keeping with our UNESCO Biosphere recognition. This recognition encompasses a broad range of community activities and I hope that we can help support a number of worthy initiatives.’