The first interactive session heard how FIA ASNs should consider joining forces with neighbouring clubs in applying for grant aid to more rapidly advance motorsport development programmes in their territories.

In a session that took delegates through details of the latest funding round of the FIA Sport Grant Programme, Kate Robson, Head of the Education and Grants Administration, introduced club representatives to the concept of cluster applications.

“Only one grant application is permitted per individual ASN each year, but what we wanted to inform clubs about is the possibility of making a group application in partnership with ASNs in their area or region,” she said.

“This would be on the basis of establishing a single programme that a group of ASNs would like to implement and the funding, if granted, would go towards the implementation of that programme in each territory. For example, if a group of neighbouring ASNs wished to undertake training for marshals they would jointly be trained by their Regional Training Provider.”

According to Robson, the cluster approach offers a number of benefits.

“It helps with sporting co-operation between geographically close countries, it is more cost effective and it allows for the provision of specific and consistent content for training.

“Additionally, if you have a situation where marshals from neighbouring countries receive this training, they are all trained to the same standard and this increases the mobility marshals allowing them to officiate at events in each territory.”

In a cluster application, one ASN would act as the lead ASN on the project. An ASN can apply for funding as part of a cluster and on an individual basis, but two funding applications from an ASN for the same type of activity would not be permitted.

Following the presentation of the various types of application, delegates were then given the chance to form groups to undertake a mock cluster application process.

The latest round of FIA Sport Grant Funding opened on July 1 and will close on August20. ASNs are urged to complete their applications as soon as possible.