Community groups and organisations across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are being invited to apply for a share of £3.5 million in funding as part of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme.
The funding opportunity follows the Government's confirmation of an additional £47.3 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) to drive economic growth in 2025-26. Managed by Cornwall Council, this funding builds upon the existing three-year SPF allocation of £137 million, which is set to conclude in March 2025.
The latest funding for community projects is open to applicants including charities, community interest companies, charitable incorporated organisations and town and parish councils. There is £2.5m available through the Community Levelling Up Programme and a further £1,051,100 through the Community Capacity Fund.
Cllr Carol Mould, portfolio holder for neighbourhoods at Cornwall Council, said: “Having secured a fourth year of funding from Government for Cornwall and Scilly we are delighted to be opening applications for these community funds.
“We have already seen the hugely positive impact that funding like this can have on our local communities, and I would urge community groups and organisations to find out more. There is detailed guidance on the Cornwall Council website and our teams are standing by to offer advice and support to applicants.”
Cllr Steve Sims, Isles of Scilly Council portfolio holder for transport, economy and tourism said: “The final allocation of Community Levelling Up funds has been made available to the Islands. To date, the Community Levelling Up Programme has benefitted local community groups such as the Island Haven, Buzza Bus and the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust.
Local groups seeking funding for projects that could help improve community facilities, contribute to sustainability or remove barriers to participation are encouraged to apply to the final round of Community Levelling Up funds.”
The Community Levelling Up Programme has £2.5m available to support community-level investments for Good Growth across Cornwall and Scilly and is aimed at locally based projects to tackle deprivation and strengthen communities. Funding from £25,000 to £200,000 is available, subject to funds being available in each Community Area Partnership (CAP) area. The deadline for applications is 28th of February and projects must be completed by 31st December 2025.
Funding priorities include:
Sustainable and accessible infrastructure, where capital improvements enhance sustainability, reduce energy costs, and improve accessibility in community spaces. Examples include installing ramps and hearing loops in community halls, upgrading green energy systems such as heat pumps or solar panels, and refurbishing local community infrastructure.
Green spaces and wellbeing, with investments in public parks, paths, playgrounds, and outdoor community spaces that encourage social engagement and physical activity.
Events and Culture, with support for new community-led events or programmes that enhance local economies, boost footfall, and celebrate local heritage. One-off events will not be funded, but projects that establish longer-term cultural initiatives that continue beyond the life of the funding will be considered.
More information and guidance on how to apply can be found on the Community Levelling Up Programme pages.
Visit the Community Levelling Up Programme pages
The Community Capacity Fund has £1,051,100 available and aims to support grassroots organisations in Cornwall, particularly in rural areas with limited grant funding experience. This fund enables community groups to develop project ideas and secure further funding by covering costs for feasibility studies, business plans, professional consultancy like architects’ drawings and community engagement activities. Small capital purchases are also permitted if it will result in an increase in community activity.
Funding from £1,000 to £24,999 is available and applications are open until all funds are allocated. The focus is on organisations with little to no experience in securing funding and projects will have until 31 December 2025 to fully complete their activity.
Visit the Community Capacity Fund pages
Cornwall Council are holding a webinar on Wednesday 12th February to provide more information about the priorities, eligibility criteria and application process for both of these funding opportunities. Organisations can sign up below.
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