Moneywise - Grassroots Grants

Regeneration & Renewal, 19 September 2008

How much is it worth? A total of £130 million is divided into two parts. An £80 million small grants fund for community organisations and a £50 million endowments programme have been established. The latter will enable local funders to generate additional donations on a matched basis and invest them in endowments, thus building their capacity to provide long-term funding.

What's it for? The programme aims to help small voluntary and community organisations without the need for the large volumes of paperwork necessary for larger awards. Grants will range from £250 to £5,000. The cash could be used to enable local clubs to buy new kit, coach new volunteers, or to redecorate a village hall. The scheme will run from 2008 to 2011.

Who is eligible? Any third sector organisations with an annual income of less than £20,000. Local, regional and national businesses are also invited to get involved by investing in the scheme's "endowment match challenge". The Government has set aside a £50 million pot from which it will match endowment investments from businesses. This option is also open to individual investors.

Who runs it? The Community Development Fund (CDF) is administering the fund nationally. However, they have appointed "local funders" to ensure the money gets to where it is needed in each community.

- How to apply Groups should apply directly to their local funder. A full list and contact details is on the CDF website, www.cdf.org.uk and for more information contact the CDF grants administration team at grassroots@cdf.rg.uk or on 01223 400331.