Ministry of Justice

The third round of the Ministry of Justice's Innovation Fund has launched to applicants with fresh ideas for encouraging people to become involved in democracy.The Innovation Fund will support projects that develop new ways to help people participate in public discussions and influence government policy. Bids from ?5,000 to ?15,000 are expected per project, up to the total budget of ?150,000. Project funding is open to non-governmental organisations, charities, community groups and other relevant bodies. Potential applicants must adhere to the Ministry of Justice's equality and diversity statement. Applicants should keep in mind the following six criteria for the Fund: - The project assists people to discuss public issues and influence government policy-making. - The project trials a new or different method or technique for engagement, or applies an existing method or technique in a new way. - Where there are similar existing engagement programmes, the project complements or builds on these rather than duplicating them. - The project is nationwide, or could be rolled out across the country, or could be adopted by other organisations. - The project can achieve a tangible result within 12 months and a review of the result within 15 months. - The project is sustainable beyond the life of the Innovation Fund grant. Applications must be submitted by 26 September 2008. Visit: