The Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, has launched a major new funding programme to boost the economy in the region with applications for three funds now live.

The Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund was launched on 31 January and is offering high street partnerships funding to boost the resilience of the region’s high streets and attract visitors.

The Carbon Negative Challenge Fund was launched on 5 February for projects that demonstrate innovative ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and, in-turn, accelerate the region towards its ambition of achieving carbon-negative by 2040.

The Skills Innovation Fund was also launched on 5 February to support skills development across the region and tackle a number of challenges highlighted by stakeholders, including declining numbers of adults engaging in learning and the recruitment of tutors. The fund will help organisations to innovate in their delivery and build capacity in their workforce.

A fourth funding stream, the Business Innovation Fund, will launch in March, aiming to boost economic opportunity across York and North Yorkshire by attracting investment and supporting businesses in being more innovative, productive and resilient.

Click here for more information on the Mayoral Challenge Fund, and the four grant programmes.