The project: In collaboration with the community, turned an old pub into a dynamic, creative and industrious rural hub through learning and skill exchanges, business development and volunteer placements.

Themes: Powering up rural communities.

What we liked about it: This project had significant reach and impact, with strong quantitative and qualitative evidence of need in the form of survey results, monitoring & evaluation data and testimonials. They went beyond simply purchasing the pub and used community consultation to turn it into a hub providing a range of services. Their programmes aim to provide education and social engagement opportunities in wide-ranging skills; support business start-up programmes to encourage entrepreneurship and a circular local economy that supports local business recovery; encourage environmental stewardship and biodiversity on the inn’s land; champion new green energy ideas and support other local businesses to do the same. They also connect the resources held within rural spaces globally with a learning exchange programme that maintains and enhances the value of rural life, inviting other communities to collaborate.