Following the success of Detroit SOUP, a group of Brummies have taken inspiration from the US city and come together to start up the micro-granting event in Birmingham.
SOUP offers a supportive space where people can gather and share a meal to encourage conversation, relationship building and resource sharing, while supporting creative community projects in their hometown. SOUP is a great way to raise money, build community support and connect to local resources that can help groups carry out a project.
Each event sees four project proposals presented over an evening of food, fun and music. With a suggested entrance fee of £5 supporters are encouraged to bring and share food while voting for the community project they think is the best. The project with the most votes wins the money taken on the door and leaves with the funds that evening.
“After watching the BBC Documentary on Detroit SOUP I was so inspired by the simple format and the great projects being supported that I set about starting the Birmingham equivalent,” comments Birmingham SOUP Chair Amy Martin. “It happened just after the General Election in May when more cuts and increased austerity measures were announced, and it just felt like the right time to take things into our own hands and help make a positive contribution to the community”.
Birmingham SOUP is now seeking project proposals for its inaugural event on the 1st October which will take place at the crowdfunded Impact Hub space in Digbeth. By answering four simple questions (available at on the site) groups and organisations with ideas for community projects are encouraged to apply for start-up funds. Deadline for applications is 17th September at 12noon.
Alongside funding there is an opportunity for groups & individuals to network, make connections and, in the spirit of the event, help make projects happen whether they are winners or not.
Tickets: Everyone is welcome to attend. Please visit the Eventbrite page for entry.
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