Community Impact Support Scheme (CISS)
Our Community Impact Support Scheme (CISS) is a funding mechanism that was open to organisations operating within the social economy*, supporting those most in need through the provision of targeted activity. By investing in the work of the social economy the CISS aimed to mitigate some of the challenges arising from welfare reform and wider public-sector cuts.
Through a competitive process, grants were awarded where they were deemed to be most needed and where they would have the greatest, long-lasting impact by a panel of stakeholders. These comprised of representatives from Devon County Council, Devon district councils, Dartington School for Social Entrepreneurs, Devon Community Foundation, Devon Communities Together, Devon & Somerset Business Finance Network and the Department for Work & Pensions.
In round 1, five organisations across Devon were awarded funding. In round 2, four organisations across Devon were awarded funding.
If you are a new or established social enterprise seeking business support or advice please view our Economy and Enterprise website to find out if your organisation is eligible to take advantage of up to 12 hours free business support in the following areas:
- Income diversification and sustainability.
- Measuring your social impact (transformational index).
- Legal structure.
- Governance.
- Advice and support for start-ups.
- Advice and support on business growth and development.
- Digital support.
- Leadership support and advice.
Up-to-date information about grant funding opportunities can be found at Devon Funding News. Subscribe to receive emails containing the latest news from the site.
*The term social economy is used here to include the voluntary sector, community organisations and social enterprise.