HLF will launch the new easy-to-apply-for microgrants at events this weekend (10 and 11 November) at Art Gene, Barrow. Local organisations are being invited to attend the events, where they can put their ideas to HLF North West staff and they are promised an on-the-spot answer.

Individual grants worth between £200 and £3,000 will be given to community projects investigating Barrow’s past. The microgrants will be available from November 2017 to February 2018 and the total grant pot is just £25,000. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.

The scheme, which is an extension of HLF’s Sharing Heritage programme, is open to community groups within Barrow-in-Furness (a Priority Area for HLF), especially to those that have never applied for a grant before. The application process will be simple, with a minimum of forms, and applicants can expect an instant answer to their project idea.

[quote=Nathan Lee, Head of HLF North West]“The National Lottery is investing in the spirit of Barrow and we want to hear from local people whatever their heritage project may be."[/quote]

Head of HLF North West, Nathan Lee, said: “The National Lottery is investing in the spirit of Barrow and we want to hear from local people whatever their heritage project may be. This is a new and different way of giving heritage grants and we are delighted that Barrow has been chosen as the place where we will be piloting this for the first time in the UK.”

Andrew Bass, Business Development Officer, Cumbria Council for Voluntary Service (CVS), said: “This is brilliant news for Barrow. The area has such a rich and varied history so it has been great to find out that HLF and the National Lottery have chosen us for its microgrants pilot. We look forward to as many groups as possible bringing ideas to the event in November and in the weeks following to explore, discuss and display the heritage of this vibrant town.”

Barrow has a proud industrial history, having constructed many Royal Navy ships and submarines. Natural history is also well-served with nature reserves and the town's proximity to the beautiful Lake District. The Market Tales project is currently investigating Barrow Market's history thanks to National Lottery players.

It is now easier than ever to explore Barrow’s rich history, thanks to money from National Lottery players. But hurry, because time is short!

If you'd like more information, or a chance to discuss your ideas, please contact the HLF North West team on 0161 200 8470, or through the team's email address.