How to Apply
Please first take a look at the eligibility criteria. If you think you meet those criteria then please take the following steps.
1) Download the Expression of Interest Form
Please fill this in and return it to NREAG@bassetlaw.gov.uk. We prefer the application to be completed and sent back digitally. We will also need a hard copy with your signature, which you can send through to us as soon as you get chance. If this is an issue for you, please contact Jim Burley on 01777 712711 and he will be happy to help.
2) EOI Appraisal
After completing and returning the EOI we will then perform a quick appraisal to make sure you are eligible to apply and that your project is sound. There’s a couple of things that could happen now:
- Your EOI is passed and we proceed onto stage 3
- We ask you to make some changes or clarify some of your application before proceeding to stage 3
- Your application is rejected. This could be because the application is ineligible, or that we no longer have funding available in that area. We will always give you a reason and will try to proceed where possible
3) Site Visit
The LEADER Project Manager will now perform a site visit. They will come and see the site of the project which helps to give a better idea of what you want to achieve. This is just to get a better idea of the project, get to know you a little bit better and assist in guiding you through the rest of the process. If everything is OK at this point, we move on to stage 4.
4) Full Application
You will now be asked to complete a full application. This, along with the guidance, can be found below. We understand that this is neither a quick or easy process. We also really do need all the information requested or we cannot proceed with you application. So for example, where 3 quotes are asked for, we do need all 3 before we can go on. We do also need the business plan. Under no circumstances should you fill out this application without completing an EOI first and without the permission of the LEADER Project Manager.
The LEADER Project manager and the Funding Assistants are available to give you any help you need with this stage of the process so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need help.
Full Application Guidance Notes
5) Application Appraisal
Your application is then given a full appraisal. This procedure can take time and we may ask you to make some changes or clarify some of the points. If everything is OK at this stage it then goes to the LAG for approval.
6) LAG Meeting
The LAG meets to discuss your application and will then take a vote on whether to pass the project or not. Once again there are a couple of things that can happen.
- The application is passed with no changes
- The application is passed but with specific contractual clauses
- The application is passed but at a reduced level of funding
- The application is rejected. This could be for a number of reasons but you will always be kept informed
7) Offer Letter
If you pass all approval stages, you will then be asked to fill out a schedule of claims and attend a project start-up meeting to clarify what happens next and what your responsibilities are. The LEADER project manger will then explain what happens next in more detail.