University Participation Fund Applications Open

British Fencing in partnership with BUCS would like to invite Higher Education Institutions to apply for a grant of up £1000 to deliver a new and innovative fencing participation initiative. The successful projects will focus on engaging and retaining new fencers in regular activity to improve student experience.

During 2014/15 British Fencing has undertaken a comprehensive research project to better understand the key market segments that currently engage in Fencing. Using the Channel Four Tribal Insights the following two segments have been identified as key target markets for new fencing participation offers:

– Leading Edges – specifically female ‘Creatives’ (Arts and Drama students)

– Alternative – specifically male ‘Real gamers’ (Techie and Computer science students)

British Fencing would like to work with six universities starting in September 2015 to create innovative new initiatives that engage these specific target groups.

To ensure projects are sustainable and that there are accessible exit routes for those that wish to continue fencing after the initial sessions, British Fencing would like to hear from Universities with existing Fencing Clubs. The projects should be 8 weeks of activity and should empower the existing fencing students to be creative and work with their universities to deliver the new projects and attract new participants. It is important to note that the funding should be used to attract new students into fencing and not provide additional opportunities for those already fencing within student clubs.

To view the full criteria for the funding and to submit an application for a British Fencing University Participation Grant please click here.

The deadline for applications is Friday 28th August at 5pm.

If you would like to discuss the Participation Fund or any other University Fencing related matter please do not hesitate to contact James Szymik, British Fencing Higher Education Participation Programme Manager, at [email protected] or Matt Holdstock, BUCS Sport Development Manager, at [email protected].

Read more here.