Community groups and grassroots sports organisations across the UK can now apply for funding through the Barclays Community Sport Fund, a national programme aimed at tackling inequalities in sport and increasing access for underrepresented groups.
Delivered in partnership with Sported, the fund forms part of a three-year programme running from April 2025 to December 2027, investing around £1.4 million each year into community sport initiatives.
The fund is designed to support not-for-profit organisations—including charities, community groups and sports clubs—that are helping to make football, cricket and tennis more accessible, particularly for women and girls and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Funding Available
Organisations can apply for:
- £1,000 Access Grants to help deliver or grow inclusive sports activities
- Coaching grants to support the development of female coaches in grassroots sport
Funding can be used for a range of costs including equipment, venue hire, coaching, and volunteer expenses, helping groups to expand their reach and impact in local communities.
Key Deadline
The current £1,000 Access Grant round is open from 25 March 2026 and closes at 5pm on 27 May 2026. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as the fund is expected to be highly competitive and may close sooner if oversubscribed.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants must:
- Be a not-for-profit organisation
- Deliver (or plan to deliver) football, ক্রিকেট or tennis activities
- Work in areas of higher deprivation or support underrepresented groups
👉 Find out more and apply: Barclays Community Sport Fund
This funding offers a valuable opportunity for local organisations to strengthen community sport provision, improve inclusion, and create more opportunities for people to get active.
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