Funding announced to support Welsh-speaking community projects

The Welsh Government has announced £250,000 of funding to be shared between community cooperative projects in order to protect and help the Welsh language to thrive.

Community groups were previously invited to apply for funding to set up or support co-operatives, social enterprises, and community-led housing.

21 groups are set to receive funding.

One project that received funding will turn a former chapel in Pembrokeshire, which is now owned by the community, into a local heritage centre and café with two affordable flats. The project has received £12,500.

Aberdyfi Community Projects Ltd has also received £12,000 in order to support the Welsh language in Aberdyfi by creating a sustainable economic community and accommodation for local people. The money will be used to help the group purchase the Penrhos Garage and Post Office building.

The minister for education and welsh language, Jeremy Miles, said: "The Welsh language belongs to us all, and that includes every community in Wales. I’m pleased to see the creative ideas proposed by community groups across the country. These grants will help create opportunities, provide affordable housing and help protect the Welsh Language."

Minister for economy, Vaughan Gething said: "Social enterprises and community-led cooperatives are an important part of the social and economic landscape in Wales - providing good quality job opportunities, supporting local economies and in many cases safeguarding community assets and vital services. That’s why supporting them to develop and grow is a key aim of the Welsh Government.

“I’m pleased we have been able to support this project, which is playing an important role in helping co-operatives and social enterprises to support Welsh-speaking communities. Delivering this project through Cwmpas has also ensured the project aligns and benefits from the wider support available through Social Business Wales."

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