Community groups, charities and voluntary organisations can access a wide
range of grants for local projects — from running costs to one-off
improvements. Knowing the main funders is the place to begin.
The main funders
The National Lottery Community Fund is the largest funder of
community activity in the UK, supporting projects big and small. Many
councils run community or ward grants for local groups, and
there are countless charitable trusts and foundations, some
national and many local, that fund specific causes or areas.
Finding and applying
Local infrastructure organisations — such as a Council for Voluntary Service
(CVS) or community foundation — can help you find funders and strengthen your
application. Read each funder’s priorities carefully, be clear about the
difference your project will make, and keep your budget realistic.
What to do next
Explore the National Lottery Community Fund and ask your council and local CVS
about grants. For help that reaches individuals in your community, see our
local support page.
Sources
The National Lottery Community Fund; GOV.UK; NCVO. Reviewed: 3 September 2026.
In summary
Community Grants
Community grants are funds that support local groups, charities, clubs and volunteer projects that benefit people in their area. From running a community hall to launching a food bank, a youth club or a green-space project, the right grant can turn a good idea into reality. This guide explains where community funding comes from, who can apply and how to build a winning bid.
Who community grants are for
Community funding is aimed at not-for-profit organisations rather than individuals. Typical applicants include:
- Registered charities and charitable incorporated organisations.
- Community interest companies and social enterprises.
- Constituted voluntary and community groups, such as residents’ associations and sports clubs.
- Parish and town councils running local projects.
Most funders expect your group to have a written constitution, a management committee and a bank account in the organisation’s name. If you are a new group, some smaller grants are designed specifically to help you get established.
Where to find community funding
There are more sources than many groups realise. The National Lottery Community Fund is one of the largest, supporting projects of all sizes across the UK. Local councils, combined authorities and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund also distribute community grants, while businesses, supermarkets and energy companies run their own local funding pots. Charitable trusts and foundations fund specific themes such as youth work, health, heritage and the environment — your local Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) can help you find the ones that fit.
What community grants can pay for
Depending on the scheme, funding can cover equipment, venue hire, running costs, staff or volunteer expenses, training, events and capital works such as building improvements. Energy-saving upgrades to community buildings are increasingly popular with funders too — our guidance on renewable-energy grants covers schemes that can cut a hall’s running costs. Read each grant’s rules closely, as some exclude ongoing running costs or require match funding.
How to write a successful bid
Strong applications tell a clear story. Describe the need in your community, backed by simple evidence such as local statistics or a survey; explain exactly what you will do and who will benefit; and set out a realistic, itemised budget. Show how the project will be sustained after the grant ends, and demonstrate that your group can manage the money responsibly. Our general guidance on eligibility and applications explains the process in more detail.
Managing the money responsibly
Once you are awarded a grant, keep clear records of how every pound is spent and hold on to receipts and invoices. Most funders ask for a short report showing what you achieved and how the money was used, and may reclaim funds spent outside the agreed purpose. Good record-keeping not only meets these conditions but also strengthens your case for future funding. For related household and local support schemes, explore our wider grants and funding section.