The BIBAs Foundation, managed by the Community Foundation for Lancashire, has been created to develop an enterprising culture in the youth of Lancashire.

The Foundation is supported by BAE Systems, which employs more than 10,000 people in its military aircraft business in the county.

Dave Holmes, Manufacturing Operations Director at BAE Systems, chairs a panel that decides upon applications submitted to the Foundation, alongside BIBAs 2015 Lancastrian of the Year, Ian Hall, and representatives from the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and the Lancashire Community Foundation.

The company will also sponsors the Most Inspiring Young Person of the Year award, with nominations coming from the groups supported by grants from the Foundation.

The fund which the Foundation delivers grants from is made up of business and personal donations, prize draw money and net surplus from the BIBAs.

What is the focus of the BIBAs Foundation?

To enable young people aged 16-24 to flourish, learn and develop business skills or knowledge; continue or expand their enterprising work; build their capacity for the future.

Who can apply?

Individuals aged 16-24 and groups supporting them.

How much can you apply for?

Community Groups: £5,000

Individuals: £2,000

Which areas are covered?

Lancashire

Special criteria?

The panel would like, where possible, for applicants to submit examples of their work/business product with the application.

For example, an application to support a textile business could be supported by sending in a sample of your product.

Examples of eligible grant items:

– Developing skills and confidence through training and development eg. courses and workshops;

– Acquiring qualifications;

– Educational visits;

– Business start-up costs;

– Mentoring / consultancy.