Yorkshire Dales

The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) is a small fund of £140, 000 that is available each year, by the Authority, to support projects that promote a more sustainable way of living and working in and visiting the National Park, whilst conserving and enhancing our local culture, wildlife, landscape, land use and communities.

Facts and figures

• is now in its 14th year of operation;
• has given out so far nearly £2.3 million to 250 projects;
• is open to everyone including community groups, businesses and individuals and offers money to either to kick-start a project or to develop it for the good of the local community and the National Park;
• gave out just over £150, 000 in 2014-15, supporting 26 projects.

What types of project are given grants?

Projects can be far-ranging from community composting, appropriate renewable energy schemes to sustainable transport and eco-tourism. Grants can also be used to support businesses and economic development projects.