The South Hams Chamber is proud to support local initiatives that align with our mission: to make doing business in the South Hams a great experience year-round.

As part of this commitment, we offer funding for events and projects that bring value to our business community, particularly during the quieter trading months. Chamber members play a key role in making this possible, every membership helps fund local activity that strengthens the business environment we share.

If you’re organising something that will benefit local businesses and encourage economic activity, we’d love to hear from you.

What We Look For

Funding requests are assessed using a clear scoring system across five key areas:

1. Support for the Year-Round Economy
   We prioritise events or projects that stimulate economic activity outside of peak seasons, especially between November and April, helping to support a more sustainable, year-round economy.
   
   
2. Benefits to Chamber Members
   Projects that offer direct value to our members, such as increased visibility, sales, or networking opportunities, are strongly considered.
   
   
3. Support for Local Businesses
   Events that benefit local businesses, both members and non-members, particularly those within the immediate area of the activity, receive positive weighting.
   
   
4. Wider Regional Impact
   If your initiative supports businesses across the wider South Hams, including those beyond the immediate community, that reach will count in your favour.
   
   
5. Added Value and Engagement
   We also consider non-financial contributions, such as opportunities for volunteer engagement, strong marketing activity, or community involvement.
   
   

How It Works

Each application is reviewed by the Chamber committee and scored using the above criteria. Higher scores lead to greater funding potential. We aim to be transparent, fair, and aligned with our values when making these decisions.

Applications are open to both members and non-members, but preference is given to initiatives that clearly support Chamber members and align with our goals.

If you’d like to apply or have any questions about our application process, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Please note: Our funding pot is limited, and once it's allocated, no further support can be granted until the next financial year, so early, well-aligned applications stand the best chance of success.