Community groups invited to apply for Common Ground Award funding

Voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations across England are being invited to apply for a new round of Common Ground Award funding.

The government has made up to £2.5 million available to support projects that bring people from different backgrounds together, strengthen relationships and create welcoming spaces where people can meet and take part in community life.

Individual organisations can apply for £20,000 to £50,000, with applications of up to £100,000 considered in exceptional circumstances. Consortium applications involving organisations working together can apply for between £100,000 and £250,000.

The funding is for capital costs, including improvements or renovations to community facilities and spaces, as well as equipment that enables organisations to bring people together. Projects should help encourage understanding between people from different backgrounds, reduce prejudice or ease local tensions.

The fund is open to voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations based and operating in England with charitable, benevolent or philanthropic purposes.

📅 Deadline: 12 October 2026

Successful applicants are expected to be notified in December 2026, with funding payments likely to be made in January 2027.

👉 Find out more about the Common Ground Award and how to apply