The National Forest Company (NFC) is launching a new grants scheme to help fund projects aimed at establishing the National Forest as a sustainable destination for people to visit.
The grants have been set up to support businesses with their continued recovery from the pandemic, and to encourage them to invest wisely now to create a greener future for the sector.
The National Forest is right in the heart of the country, embracing 200 square miles of the Midlands. It spans across parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire and aims to link the two ancient Forests of Charnwood and Needwood.
Developing sustainable tourism aligns with the National Forest’s 25-year vision for the Forest to be a place where people and nature can work together to grow a positive future.
Through these grants, the NFC aims to support organisations that share this vision and can put forward projects that help to develop the National Forest as a landmark sustainable tourism destination: inspired by the Forest, accessible to everyone, and responsive to the urgency of climate change.
John Everitt, chief executive of the NFC, said: “There is a growing demand for more sustainable holidays and short breaks, where visitors know they are supporting green jobs and having a lower impact on the planet. We’re excited to be launching our sustainable tourism grants here in the National Forest and leading the transition to a low carbon destination.”
Qualifying projects may fall into one or more of the following categories:
- Improve and promote access for all visitors to surrounding woodlands and habitats.
- Strengthen visitor connections with the Forest.
- Protect and enhance nature to improve the visitor experience.
- Raise visitor awareness of the National Forest story and future vision.
The Sustainable Tourism Grants Scheme is open now until 31 May 2022.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available to organisations working in the tourism and hospitality sector, including small businesses, charities and social enterprises.
Those looking to apply should visit the National Forest website to find out more or contact Richard Drakeley, Tourism Development Manager.
