Community Grants: Local Project Funding Guide

Transform your community with accessible funding. Discover 156 grant opportunities for local projects, community groups, and grassroots initiatives.

The Community Funding Landscape

Community grants represent the most accessible funding source for local organizations, with £890 million available annually across 156 programs. From village halls to community gardens, youth clubs to digital inclusion projects, funding exists for every type of community initiative.

Major Community Funding Sources

  • National Lottery Community Fund: £600M for community projects
  • Community Ownership Fund: £150M for community asset transfer
  • People's Postcode Lottery: £89M for local charities
  • Local Authority Grants: £67M across 408 councils
  • Parish Council Grants: £45M for very local projects
  • Community Foundation Network: £34M in local giving

Popular Community Project Types

  • Community spaces (32%): Village halls, community centres, shared facilities
  • Youth programs (28%): After-school clubs, sports, skills development
  • Environmental projects (24%): Community gardens, conservation, sustainability
  • Support services (21%): Advice centers, food banks, social support
  • Arts and culture (18%): Local festivals, heritage projects, creative spaces
  • Digital inclusion (15%): Computer access, digital skills, connectivity

Community Grant Success Factors

  • Local need demonstration: Clear evidence of community demand
  • Volunteer engagement: Strong community participation and support
  • Partnership approach: Collaboration with other local organizations
  • Realistic budgeting: Achievable costs with value for money
  • Sustainability planning: Long-term viability beyond grant period

Grant Size Categories

  • Micro grants (£500-£2,000): Equipment, training, small events
  • Small grants (£2,001-£10,000): Project development, program delivery
  • Medium grants (£10,001-£50,000): Facility improvements, major programs
  • Large grants (£50,001+): Capital projects, multi-year programs

Application Tips for Community Groups

Small community organizations can maximize success through:

  • Start small: Build track record with smaller grants before applying for large awards
  • Local evidence: Use community surveys and local data to demonstrate need
  • Simple language: Avoid jargon and explain projects clearly
  • Budget realism: Include contingency and account for all project costs
  • Follow-up commitment: Show willingness to report on outcomes and impact