Deadline: 07-Sep-2026
The HPC Community Fund Open Grants provide funding to community groups affected by the Hinkley Point C (HPC) development in Somerset. The program supports projects that improve community wellbeing, address the impacts of the development, create local opportunities, and strengthen communities through sustainable, collaborative initiatives.
Eligible organizations can apply for multi-year grants exceeding £10,000 per year, with more than £1 million available annually to support local projects.
What Is the HPC Community Fund Open Grants Program?
The HPC Community Fund Open Grants is a community funding program designed to support areas affected by the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station development in Somerset, England.
The fund provides financial support to community-led projects that:
- Improve local wellbeing and quality of life
- Address challenges created by the Hinkley Point C development
- Help communities benefit from new opportunities generated by the project
- Strengthen local resilience and sustainability
The grant program recognizes that while Hinkley Point C brings economic opportunities, large-scale construction projects can also create pressures on local communities.
About Hinkley Point C
What Is Hinkley Point C?
Hinkley Point C (HPC) is one of the largest infrastructure and energy projects ever undertaken in Somerset.
Key Facts
- Construction began in 2017
- Work is expected to continue until at least 2027
- The project has generated employment, training, and business opportunities
- Construction activity has also created impacts on local residents and communities
Because of these long-term changes, funding has been made available to help communities adapt, thrive, and improve their quality of life.
Fund Priorities
Projects seeking funding should align with one or more of the fund’s core priorities.
1. Improve Community Wellbeing
Projects should enhance residents’ quality of life through activities, services, facilities, or support programs.
Examples include:
- Community health initiatives
- Social inclusion projects
- Youth engagement activities
- Community facilities improvements
2. Address the Impacts of Hinkley Point C
Funding is intended to help communities manage challenges associated with the development.
Examples include:
- Community support services
- Infrastructure improvements
- Local engagement programs
- Projects reducing social or environmental pressures
3. Maximize Opportunities Created by HPC
Projects that help residents benefit from economic or social opportunities linked to Hinkley Point C are encouraged.
Examples include:
- Skills development
- Employment support
- Community enterprise projects
- Training initiatives
4. Support Areas Experiencing Greater Impact
Priority may be given to communities that have experienced the most significant effects from the construction and operation of HPC.
5. Encourage Collaboration
The fund values partnerships between:
- Community groups
- Charities
- Voluntary organizations
- Public sector bodies
- Local stakeholders
Collaborative projects can often deliver broader and more sustainable outcomes.
6. Deliver Value for Money
Applications should demonstrate that funding will be used effectively and generate meaningful community benefits.
7. Promote Long-Term Sustainability
Projects should consider how activities or benefits will continue after grant funding ends.
Who Is Eligible?
Organizations applying for HPC Community Fund Open Grants must meet the fund’s minimum eligibility standards.
Eligible groups generally include community-focused organizations that:
- Operate within areas affected by Hinkley Point C
- Deliver benefits to local communities
- Have appropriate governance structures
- Demonstrate sound financial management
- Have safeguarding policies and procedures in place where required
Applicants must also satisfy the fund’s requirements regarding:
- Organizational structure
- Financial controls
- Legal compliance
- Risk management
- Safeguarding responsibilities
Organizations that cannot meet these standards may not be eligible for funding.
Funding Available
Annual Funding Budget
The HPC Community Fund distributes more than £1 million per year to support eligible community projects.
Grant Size
The program offers:
- Multi-year funding opportunities
- Grants exceeding £10,000 per year
- Support for longer-term community impact initiatives
This allows organizations to plan and deliver projects over multiple years rather than relying solely on short-term funding.
How Applications Are Assessed
Funding decisions are based on several key criteria.
Applications are more likely to succeed if they:
Demonstrate Strong Community Need
The project clearly addresses local issues or opportunities connected to Hinkley Point C.
Have Community Support
Residents and stakeholders support the proposed activities.
Benefit Highly Impacted Areas
The project serves communities experiencing significant effects from HPC development.
Work in Partnership
The organization collaborates with other groups or agencies.
Offer Good Value for Money
The expected outcomes justify the funding requested.
Plan for the Future
The project includes realistic plans for sustainability after grant funding ends.
Why This Fund Matters
Large infrastructure projects can transform communities for decades.
The HPC Community Fund helps ensure that local residents share in the benefits of development while also addressing challenges created by ongoing construction and change.
The fund supports:
- Community resilience
- Social wellbeing
- Economic opportunity
- Local collaboration
- Long-term sustainability
By investing directly in community-led projects, the program helps create lasting positive outcomes for affected areas.
How to Apply for HPC Community Fund Open Grants
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Review the fund’s eligibility requirements and ensure your organization meets the minimum standards.
Step 2: Identify a Community Need
Define the issue, challenge, or opportunity your project will address.
Step 3: Develop a Project Plan
Create a clear proposal outlining:
- Project goals
- Activities
- Expected outcomes
- Community benefits
- Budget requirements
Step 4: Demonstrate Community Support
Gather evidence showing local demand or stakeholder backing.
Examples include:
- Surveys
- Consultation feedback
- Letters of support
- Community engagement records
Step 5: Prepare Financial Information
Provide accurate financial documentation and demonstrate responsible financial management.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Complete the application process according to the fund’s guidance and deadlines.
Step 7: Plan for Sustainability
Explain how the project’s benefits will continue after grant funding ends.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Organizations can improve their chances of success by avoiding these common errors:
Weak Connection to HPC Impacts
Applications should clearly explain how the project relates to impacts or opportunities arising from Hinkley Point C.
Lack of Community Evidence
Insufficient proof of community need or support can weaken an application.
Unrealistic Budgets
Budgets should be accurate, reasonable, and aligned with project activities.
Poor Sustainability Planning
Projects should explain how benefits will continue beyond the grant period.
Limited Collaboration
Failing to engage with partners may reduce the overall impact of a proposal.
Unclear Outcomes
Applications should define measurable and achievable results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the HPC Community Fund Open Grants program?
It is a funding program that supports community projects in areas affected by the Hinkley Point C development, focusing on wellbeing, resilience, and local opportunities.
Who can apply for funding?
Eligible community organizations operating in impacted areas can apply, provided they meet governance, financial management, and safeguarding requirements.
How much funding is available?
More than £1 million is available annually through the HPC Community Fund.
What size grants are offered?
The program offers multi-year grants of more than £10,000 per year for eligible projects.
What types of projects are prioritized?
Projects that improve wellbeing, address HPC-related impacts, maximize opportunities, promote collaboration, and demonstrate sustainability are prioritized.
Are partnerships encouraged?
Yes. Collaborative projects involving multiple organizations are viewed positively and may strengthen an application.
Why is sustainability important?
The fund aims to create lasting community benefits, so applicants should show how project outcomes will continue after funding ends.
Key Takeaways
- The HPC Community Fund Open Grants support communities affected by Hinkley Point C.
- More than £1 million is available annually for community projects.
- Eligible organizations can apply for multi-year grants exceeding £10,000 per year.
- Priority is given to projects that improve wellbeing, address HPC impacts, create opportunities, and deliver long-term community benefits.
- Strong applications demonstrate community need, local support, collaboration, value for money, and sustainability.
Conclusion
The HPC Community Fund Open Grants provide a significant funding opportunity for communities affected by the Hinkley Point C development. By supporting projects that improve wellbeing, address local challenges, and create sustainable opportunities, the fund helps ensure that communities can thrive during and beyond one of Somerset’s largest infrastructure projects. Organizations that can demonstrate clear community benefits, strong local support, and long-term impact are well positioned to secure funding and make a meaningful difference in their area.
For more information, visit Somerset Community Foundation.
