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Our commitment to Stockport

Over the past two years, we have been warmly welcomed into this vibrant community and we have been inspired by the brilliant and selfless individuals who we have met along the way. Therefore, it was only fitting that we launched the first phase of our Kao SEED Fund in Stockport – where we are currently constructing a 40MW, £350M data centre campus – also the first of its kind in the region.

We are proud to have made a tangible impact, showcasing our commitment to enterprise development, environmental sustainability and community empowerment. 

About the Kao SEED Fund

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.

Our Operational Partner

We were very fortunate to have collaborated with Sector 3 – a charity infrastructure support service for voluntary, community and faith-based groups, social enterprises and charitable organisations in Stockport.

More Information

Funding Focus Areas

Community Empowerment

Initiatives that strengthen local engagement and collaboration.

Coming Home

Marbury Road Edible Garden

Wave of Change

Drywave

Plastic Shed

Forward

PIE

Arc

BOOST

Pure College

Place for Youth

RCT

Garden House

Feelgood Comm

BLOGS

Siyanda Trust

Environmental Sustainability

Projects that promote a greener Stockport.

Marbury Road Edible Garden

Plastic Shed

Re:Dish

Pure

Garden House

RMIS

St Thomas

BLOGS

Enterprise Development

Programs that generate or support economic opportunities in the area.

Coming Home

Drywave

Plastic Shed

PIE

Arc

Re:Dish

Place for Youth

Garden House

RMIS

Siyanda Trust

Kao SEED Fund Stockport

Please be advised that submissions are now closed.

We will be reopening applications in 2026.

For more details on how to apply for the Kao SEED Fund Stockport, please get in touch.

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It’s inspiring to work alongside a partner like Kao Data who are committed to collaboration, sustainability and genuine community development. Their fund will help further empower Stockport’s already active community to bring forward even more innovative, entrepreneurial ideas that champion a cleaner, greener future.

Jo McGrath | CEO | Sector 3

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].