Menter Iaith (plural: Mentrau Iaith, English: Language Initiative) is a community-based organisation which works to raise the profile of the Welsh language in a specific area. Each local Menter Iaith receives a basic grant from the Welsh Language Board, as well as financial support from a number of other sources, to work with individuals, organisations, and local business to promote the use of Welsh in its area.
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The first Menter Iaith to be established was Menter Cwm Gwendraeth in 1991. Normally a Menter Iaith will operate in an area defined by the local authorities of Wales, with the exception of Carmarthenshire and Powys, which each have a number of smaller Mentrau Iaith operating on a local level. In total, there are 24 organisations in existence. In 2008, a Menter Iaith was established in Patagonia, in association with the Urdd, British Council Wales, and support from private businesses.
Mentrau Iaith Cymru
Mentrau Iaith Cymru is an umbrella organisation which provides a platform for the Mentrau to share information and ideas.