The government today launched the £10m Innovation in Giving Fund, calling on applicants to send in videos pitching ideas for technologies and networks that make it easier for people to help each other.

Previously announced in the Giving White Paper in May, the Fund cites JustGiving and Freecycle as the types of initiatives that it would like to help to get off the ground.

The Fund is being run by NESTA, which is calling for applicants to send a video ‘elevator pitch’ alongside an application form by 14 October. All videos will be published publicly.

The government said it was particularly keen on ideas that incorporate: reciprocity or exchange to stimulate civic action; pro bono assistance; measures that increase public donations and sharing of resources or assets.

Minister for civil society Nick Hurd said: “We want to root out the visionary ideas that too often never get the backing they need. We’re very open-minded about this, but ideas must have real potential to increase the giving of time or money. 

"Lots of people already get involved but many don’t for a whole array of reasons. They are missing out. Simple things, like whether or not we know our neighbours, can have a huge impact on our own well-being.”

Meanwhile, the government also revealed that the £24m Social Action Fund, which is designed to help more proven models which assist people in getting involved in their communities, will be run by the Social Investment Business.