Deadline: 08-Jan-2026
The Community Foundation for Surrey’s Main Grants Programme supports Surrey-based charities and voluntary organisations with funding to enhance community wellbeing. With a two-stage application process, grants focus on social welfare, digital inclusion, employability, access to nature, and community cohesion, offering impactful opportunities for local projects.
Overview of the Programme
The Main Grants Programme by the Community Foundation for Surrey is designed to help not-for-profit and voluntary organisations strengthen communities and improve lives across the county. Drawing on over 80 funds, the initiative prioritises projects that address social welfare needs, including tackling loneliness, digital exclusion, employability challenges, and fostering community cohesion.
Key Objectives
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Support initiatives that enhance educational, creative, and employment opportunities
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Promote community wellbeing and social inclusion
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Address issues of poverty, isolation, and access to nature
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Strengthen community capacity and cohesion
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
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Charities registered in Surrey
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Voluntary and community organisations based in the county
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Groups proposing projects with clear community impact
Not eligible:
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Public sector bodies
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Private companies
Funding Details
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Typical grant size: under £7,000 (smaller requests are more likely to succeed)
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Funding supports a wide range of activities, including community projects, educational initiatives, creative programmes, and health and wellbeing interventions
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Grants are awarded three times per year, allowing organisations to align applications with key deadlines
How the Application Process Works
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Expression of Interest (EOI): Organisations submit an EOI to outline their project and potential impact.
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Full Application: Strong EOIs are invited to submit a detailed application.
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Assessment: Applications are evaluated based on community benefit, alignment with programme priorities, and the potential for meaningful impact.
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Funding Decision: Selected projects receive grants to implement and enhance their initiatives.
Why It Matters
The programme empowers local charities and voluntary groups to:
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Launch, expand, or enhance community-based activities
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Address pressing social needs in Surrey
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Strengthen long-term community resilience and cohesion
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Access support from a funder dedicated to improving local wellbeing
Tips for a Strong Application
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Clearly demonstrate the project’s community benefit and intended impact
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Provide evidence of local need and engagement with beneficiaries
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Keep grant requests realistic and aligned with programme expectations
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Attend Q&A webinars hosted by the Foundation to clarify requirements and improve proposal quality
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Main Grants Programme? – Charities and voluntary organisations based in Surrey.
2. Are public sector bodies or private companies eligible? – No, the programme focuses solely on charitable and community organisations.
3. How much funding can be requested? – Smaller grants under £7,000 are more likely to succeed.
4. How often are grants awarded? – The programme runs three times per year.
5. What types of projects are supported? – Projects addressing social welfare, digital inclusion, employability, education, community cohesion, and access to nature.
6. What is the application process? – It is a two-stage process: submission of an Expression of Interest followed by a full application for shortlisted projects.
7. Are there support resources for applicants? – Yes, the Foundation offers webinar-style Q&A sessions to help applicants prepare.
Conclusion
The Community Foundation for Surrey Main Grants Programme provides an essential funding pathway for charities and voluntary organisations to strengthen local communities. By supporting projects that address social needs, enhance employability, reduce isolation, and improve wellbeing, the programme helps Surrey organisations create meaningful, lasting impact.
For more information, visit Community Foundation for Surrey.