Local MSP Sandra White today urged local organisations in Glasgow Kelvin with green ambitions to put their local project forward to have the opportunity to receive up to £10,000 to help them with their projects.

The Green Grants Initiative, launched in 2010, offers communities throughout the UK the opportunity to apply for funding to help support local environmental project. The initiative proved successful last year and has doubled its initial funding value to a total of £40,000 for this year’s awards.

By expanding the scheme, The Green Grants Initiative is able to offer one grant for up to £10,000 for a special project which will make a real difference to the environment, with the remaining £30,000 available grants for up to £2,000.

Sandra White MSP for Glasgow Kelvin commented: "This is a fantastic opportunity and I would encourage local organisations in Glasgow Kelvin with environmental projects to fill out the easy-to-use online application form to get the chance to benefit from this grant.

"I will personally write to several organisations in Glasgow Kelvin with which I have worked before to draw their attention to the grant and to encourage them to apply for the funding.

"Westminster spending cuts put immense budgetary pressure on the third sector and therefore initiatives like the Green Grants Initiative are crucial to guarantee the continuation of the work of local charities and groups and I wish the best of luck to all applicants."

The Green Grants Initiative was awarded the title of Business Sustainability Initiative of the Year at the British Insurer Awards 2011 and seeks to promote sustainable living in local communities and to raise awareness of the company brand for the eco-conscious consumer.

The Green Grant Initiative has set up an online application form available at http://www.greeninsurancegiving.co.uk/grants.php and invites applications up until 30th November 2011.  A panel of environmental experts including representatives from the Royal Scottish Geographical Society, Glasgow University, the RSPB and The National Trust for Scotland will review all applications.  The announcements of the projects that have been successful in achieving the grants of up to £2000 will be made in January 2012.  Alongside this, three of the best applications in the £10,000 category will be shortlisted for a public vote to decide which organisation will receive the one off grant.