Rural England Prosperity Fund

The Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) has helped support small businesses and community organisations across the New Forest, providing investment to strengthen the local economy and help rural enterprises thrive.

Delivered by the New Forest National Park Authority in partnership with New Forest District Council, the fund has provided grants to businesses and organisations looking to invest in equipment, facilities and improvements that support growth, innovation and sustainability.

The New Forest is home to a wealth of talented producers, makers and entrepreneurs whose work contributes to the area’s distinctive character and rural economy. Through REPF funding, local businesses have been able to develop new products, improve efficiency, expand their reach and create opportunities for future growth.

Small and micro businesses play a vital role in the New Forest economy, particularly within the food, drink, arts and crafts sectors. The fund was designed to help those enterprises access support that can often be difficult to secure through larger grant programmes.

Investing in a thriving rural economy

The Rural England Prosperity Fund forms part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and supports projects that strengthen rural communities and businesses.

By helping local enterprises invest in their future, the fund is contributing to a resilient, sustainable and prosperous New Forest economy that benefits residents, visitors and businesses alike.

Real stories from local businesses

The following case studies highlight just some of the businesses that have benefited from Rural England Prosperity Fund grants.