Regional projects focused on improving biodiversity or cultural facilities have the chance to receive between £150,000 and £500,000 funding through the Biffawards Flagship scheme for 2011, opening for applications today.

The fund was launched in 1997 when its parent company, waste management specialists Biffa, pledged to donate landfill tax credits to the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts to administer under the fund name Biffaward. Over £100m has been granted by the scheme to over 2000 projects so far.

It has funded projects such as the Wild Bird Discovery Centre at Saltholme International Nature Reserve (pictured) in the North East of England, which provides unique insight into the wildlife on the reserve.

David Braithwaite, site manager at the nature reserve said: “Because of the funding from Biffaward’s Flagship scheme, I truly believe there are opportunities to change people’s lives through the kind of unique educational work we can now provide.” 

Successful applicants to the first stage of application will be invited to provide a presentation and then a final application before being unveiled at the Biffaward Awards ceremony next year.