Deadline: 30-Sep-2026
The Grassroots Grants Programme, funded by People’s Postcode Lottery players and delivered through Postcode Trusts, provides flexible, unrestricted funding to small UK community organisations.
Grants range from £500 to £2,000 and support core costs and local activities, with a focus on organisations earning up to £25,000 annually.
What is the Grassroots Grants Programme?
This is a small grants initiative designed to support grassroots organisations delivering local impact.
It aims to:
- Strengthen small community organisations
- Provide unrestricted funding for core needs
- Sustain local services and activities
- Enable flexible use of funds
Funding Details
Grant Amount
- Minimum: £500
- Maximum: £2,000
- Recommended request: £2,000
Funding Type
- Unrestricted (can be used for any core need)
Timeline
- Programme runs: January to September 2026
- Decision time: ~10 weeks
- Fund usage period: Within 12 months
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Since funding is unrestricted, it can support:
- Core operational costs
- Community activities and programs
- Staff or volunteer expenses
- Organisational development
- Urgent or priority needs
Why This Fund Matters
Small organisations often struggle to access flexible funding.
This programme helps:
- Sustain essential community services
- Strengthen grassroots capacity
- Enable quick and flexible responses to local needs
- Support long-term community impact
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Constituted voluntary organisations
- Community groups
- Registered charities
- Non-profit companies
Income Requirement
- Annual income of up to £25,000
Application Rules
- Only one application per organisation
- Parent organisations must apply on behalf of sub-groups
Who is NOT Eligible?
The following cannot apply:
- Individuals
- For-profit organisations
- Local authorities or councils
- Schools, academies, nurseries, universities
- Organisations with only religious purposes
- Groups already funded by Postcode Trusts
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Check Eligibility
- Confirm income and organisation type
- Identify Funding Needs
- Focus on core or urgent requirements
- Prepare Application
- Clearly explain impact and use of funds
- Submit Application
- During January–September 2026 window
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Community impact
- Financial need
- Clarity of funding use
- Strength of organisation
Tips for a Strong Application
- Be clear about how funds will be used
- Show direct community benefit
- Highlight urgency or need
- Keep the application simple and focused
- Request the full £2,000 if justified
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with income above £25,000
- Submitting multiple applications
- Vague use of funds
- Applying as an ineligible entity
- Incomplete application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the funding amount?
£500 to £2,000.
2. Who funds the programme?
People’s Postcode Lottery via Postcode Trusts.
3. Is the funding restricted?
No, it is fully unrestricted.
4. Who can apply?
Small community organisations with income up to £25,000.
5. How long does it take to get a decision?
Around 10 weeks.
6. Can schools or councils apply?
No, they are not eligible.
7. How long can the funds be used?
Within 12 months of receiving the grant.
Conclusion
The Grassroots Grants Programme 2026 is a valuable funding opportunity for small UK organisations needing flexible financial support.
With unrestricted funding and a simple structure, it enables grassroots groups to sustain their work and strengthen community impact.
For more information, visit Groundwork.