A £200,000 grants package to help community projects across Belfast has been unveiled.

Belfast City Council has re-affirmed its commitment to driving economic regeneration in the city, through the Neighbourhood Economic Development Programme.

The funding will be available - in the form of grants of between £5,000 and £20,000 - to help community organisations improve the economic conditions in areas of need.

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"In Belfast, we feel that the key to successful regeneration is focusing activity and resources on those places, communities and people most in need," said Councillor Michael Browne, Chairman of Belfast City Council`s Development Committee.

"By providing financial assistance for community-based economic development activities, we can create better economic conditions and encourage the growth of our city`s economy."

Applications are now being invited from local development agencies, firms and community groups keen to promote entrepreneurship, stimulate better quality business start-ups and promote economic development at a local level.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 12 noon on October 19, 2007. Projects must be ready to commence by January 2008.

(JM/SP)