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Introducing the Kao SEED Fund

The Kao SEED Fund, stands for Social Enterprise and Environmental Development, aims to provide financial support to not-for-profit community-led initiatives that drive social and environmental development. Through our regional funding pots, we offer small packages of financial support and ongoing mentorship that will empower local projects focused on creating a positive impact in the surrounding community.

Community Impact

At Kao Data, we are pioneering the future of data centres with an inclusive approach that ensures local communities are part of our journey. Through our innovative community impact strategy, we’re not just powering digital infrastructure; we’re actively contributing to local innovation, economic growth, and social progress.

Through the Kao SEED Fund, we are demonstrating how data centres can act as catalysts for local communities and make a real difference to people locally. By supporting inspiring, community-led, grassroots projects, we aim to foster a greener, more vibrant environment while empowering local communities to thrive.

Fund Details

Who can apply?

Social enterprises, local community groups, not-for-profit organisations, grassroots projects and individuals, are encouraged to apply for funding of between £500 to £2,500.

These grants will support the launch of new initiatives or the expansion of existing ones, particularly those that promote a cleaner, greener environment and foster not-for-profit enterprise schemes that will demonstrably benefit the local economy.

Funding Focus Areas

Community Empowerment

Initiatives that strengthen local engagement and collaboration.

Scout Hut, Youth Centre or Multi-Purpose Community Space: Space for youth programs, afterschool clubs, community clubs, and activities that foster life skills, teamwork, and art classes.

Community Festivals and Cultural Events: Annual festivals, cultural celebrations, or arts events that bring diverse groups together to celebrate local heritage and build community pride.

Youth and Senior Mentorship Programs: Programs that pair young people with seniors for mentoring or to work together on community projects.

Environmental Sustainability

Projects that promote a greener Stockport.

Community Gardens and Rewilding Initiatives: Projects that transform unused spaces into community gardens or plant trees to boost ecological diversity and enhance green spaces.

Recycling and Waste Reduction Programs: Initiatives that improve recycling and composting, or educational activities to promote sustainable practices.

Renewable Energy for Community Spaces: Funding for renewable energy sources or sustainable energy initiatives that lower local carbon emissions.

Enterprise Development

Programs that generate or support economic opportunities in the area.

Tool Library or Equipment Rental: Access to tools, cameras, software, or other business essentials to reduce startup costs for locals.

Local Business Incubators and Pop-Up Marketplaces: Programs that provide resources, mentoring or temporary spaces for locals to launch and grow their businesses.

Skills Exchange Program: Where members trade skills and services, fostering collaboration while enabling individuals to learn new abilities without financial barriers.

Find out more about our funds

As the founder of Kao Data, I am deeply committed to our corporate social responsibility, and I’m thrilled to see the Kao SEED Fund become a catalyst for community-driven impact.

David Bloom | Founder and Chairman | Kao Data

Support the Kao SEED Fund

At Kao Data, we truly believe in the power of collaboration, and we are excited to partner with stakeholders who share our commitment to creating meaningful change. Whether you’re interested in supporting the fund generally or focusing on a specific funding area, your contribution will drive innovation, economic growth, and social progress.

Get in touch to find out how you can get involved to help build a cleaner, greener and prosperous community.

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FAQs

FAQs

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  1. Who can apply?
    The fund is open to not-for-profit community groups and grassroots initiatives based in Stockport.
     
  2. What types of projects are eligible?
    We encourage projects focused on environmental sustainability, community cohesion, and local economic development.
     
  3. How much funding is available?
    Grants range from £500 to £2,500 for pilot projects or to enhance existing initiatives.
     
  4. Is this the sole funding for this project?
    If not, please expand on the additional match funding that you currently have or are in the process of applying for.
     
  5. Are there any restrictions on grants under £500?
    Yes, please note that grants under £500 may be subject to different guidelines or restrictions, which will be communicated upon application.
     
  6. When will we know if our project was selected?
    Notifications will be sent by March 31, 2025.
     
  7. How can I apply for a grant?
    Applications can be submitted through our online portal, where you will find detailed guidelines and forms.
     
  8. What happens if my application is unsuccessful?
    If your application is not successful, we encourage you to seek feedback and consider reapplying in future funding rounds.
     
  9. When is the application deadline?
    Please check our website for the latest application deadlines and any upcoming funding rounds.
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If your application is successful, Harlow Council will transfer the grant by BACS.  Bank details (account name, number and sort code) will need to be supplied with a summary of accounts. 

Funding conditions:  If your application is successful, your project must be delivered by 31 December 2026. You will have to return any grant funds if the project is not delivered or the organisation receiving the funding stops operating.

A contract agreement will need to be signed between your organisation and Harlow District Council before any funding is granted.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Grant recipients will be required to provide an end of project report to establish whether the project has met its aims and objectives, as well as to assess the overall impact on participants. Funding for the project is provided on the basis that the Project Evaluation form is returned within the agreed project timescale (no later than 31 January 2027).

Risks and Liabilities: In giving grants the ‘Harlow Council’ will require the supported project organisation or groups to accept all risks and liabilities associated with the activity being supported. This will be a condition of the grant.  Copies of relevant documents may need to be provided if the application has been approved.

Data protection statement – how we will use your information

The Council is committed to handling your personal information in line with the data processing principles.  The Data Protection Legislation and the General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 (GDPR) sets the legal framework for how we collect, handle and process personal data and for your rights as a ‘data subject.’

General Data Protection Regulation:  Personal data provided by you will be processed in accordance with this protocol. For more details, please see https://www.harlow.gov.uk/privacy-notice

Thank you for taking the time to read these guidance notes. If you have any questions, please get in touch with [email protected].