Organisations urged to apply for free community programme

The leader of Down to Earth Derby has urged “mission-led” organisations to apply for Vibrant Accountancy’s free project aimed at improving life in the community.

Jamie Quince-Starkey, who runs the Electric Daisy and Down to Earth project in Bold Lane, said winning a year’s free support from Vibrant through its Community Programme has significantly helped the organisation with its mission to help Derby become a greener city.

Electric Daisy and Down to Earth are nature regeneration events spaces in the heart of Derby that are backed by The Eden Project in Cornwall.

Now, Vibrant Accountancy has launched its community business support project for 2025 and local organisations including businesses, community interest companies and charities on a mission to improve life in Derby and Derbyshire have been urged to apply.

Vibrant owner and founder Bev Wakefield is offering one winning business a year of complimentary advice services, business planning sessions and quarterly coaching to refine and improve goals.

Jamie said: “Bev and her team were really helpful to us, levelling up our organisation and business so we didn’t have to be so granular and could take a bird’s eye view on the business.

“It’s not just on the financial side – to have people you can talk to about other aspects of running the business – it has been like therapy.

“We’ve been able to focus on the things that we really need to. For start-ups and organisations that are purpose and mission led, because you’re so focused on that, having someone to help you with the business side of things is great.

“If organisations are out there which are about their purpose and need that support with the business side of things, they should definitely apply.

“We have been able to grow the team – and having strong budgets and targets has also been helpful.”

Bev said: “Our community programme is about more than supporting a business.

“We want to amplify the impact of those who care as deeply about our local area as the team at Vibrant does.

“We really hope that any organisation which is making a difference will apply for the programme and benefit from a year of expert coaching and advice.

“It’s brilliant to hear how our support has helped Down to Earth and Electric Daisy flourish and grow.

“Now, we’d love to hear from other local organisations keen to let us know how they are making a difference to our communities.”

Applicants for Vibrant’s scheme are invited to apply by 28 February, with the winner announced on 7 March.

For more information and to apply visit https://vibrantaccountancy.co.uk/community-growth-programme-in-derby/.