Applications are now open for a number of Cambridge City Council's grants aimed at empowering local charities, volunteer groups, and community organisations.
The grants can be used to deliver support and activities in Cambridge. The projects must run between 1 April 2026 and 31 March 2027.
Every year community grant awards are made to over 80 groups, with funding contributing towards the delivery of a huge range of projects from arts and sports activities; projects that reduce social isolation and improve mental health; to initiatives which helped families manage their household budgets and get access to the financial support they need.
There are three grants now open:
- Over £5,000 Community Grant Fund – for projects that reduce social or economic inequality in Cambridge and aligns with one of the following priorities:
- improved social or economic equality
- improved general health and wellbeing
- an improved sense of belonging
- a stronger voluntary sector in the city
- Sustainable City Grants – up to £10,000 for initiatives tackling energy use, waste, emissions, and climate resilience
- Homelessness Prevention Grants – for organisations working to prevent and relieve homelessness and rough sleeping
The deadline for applications is midday on Monday 22 September.
Cllr Anna Smith, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “I’m so proud that year on year we have been able to offer a very generous grants programme to local charities, volunteer groups, and community organisations to run activities and programmes that make a real difference to people in our city.
“Despite the city’s undoubted economic success, we are one of the most unequal cities in the country. Our brilliant voluntary and community sector plays such a key role in reducing social and economic inequalities and bringing communities together. Our grants programme aims to provide financial support so that they can continue to transform lives across Cambridge.
“I strongly encourage groups and organisations to apply. If you need any support throughout the process, our dedicated team are here to help.”
Support with applications
This year, applicants will be using the council’s new grants portal to apply for grants. The portal will make accessing and completing the application easier for those applying.
To help groups navigate the application process, the council is offering a webinar for applicants on Thursday 7 August from 7pm to 9pm. This webinar will cover the grant programme and will include a walkthrough of the grants portal.
Due to the change in the way applications will be made, both new and previous applicants are encouraged to attend the webinar to familiarise themselves with the grants portal.
Please email grants@cambridge.gov.uk to book your place. For those that can’t attend, a recording will be made available following the webinar on our website.
In-person, bookable appointments will also be available on Wednesday 20 August and Wednesday 3 September for those that would like additional support and advice in completing the application – please email grants@cambridge.gov.uk to book a place.
The grants have detailed eligibility criteria. Further information on other funding opportunities is available on the website. Alternatively potential applicants are encouraged to contact the council for further information or guidance.
