Community groups and charities which need money for a worthwhile local project are invited to apply for a grant from the Gannett Foundation.

The foundation is the charitable arm of Gannett, the parent company of Newsquest, one of the UK's largest publishers and owners of this newspaper.

It gives grants of between £5,000 and £10,000 to projects that bring lasting benefits to communities within the footprint of its newspapers and websites.

It will also consider more modest applications and ones whose timescale is limited.

The foundation will support registered charities which take a creative approach to fundamental issues such as education and neighbourhood improvements, economic development, youth development, local problem-solving, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.

It will not give money to general or multi-year appeals, individuals, hospitals (other than hospices), animal charities, schools (other than special needs) political or religious organisations.

The foundation will favour projects that demonstrate good planning, oversight and financial responsibility and charities applying will need to submit their most recent financial accounts. For full details on eligibility, how to apply, and to download an application form, got to: www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/gannettfoundation.

Applications must be submitted electronically on the approved application form and emailed to Sarah Roach at sroach@london.newsquest.co.uk.

The closing date for applications is Friday, September 13, 2013.