Deadline: 20-Apr-2026
The Small Grants Programme offers up to £5,000 for simple, one-off community projects or purchases that help people walk, wheel, or cycle more. The funding supports practical solutions such as cycles, adaptive bikes, storage, small events, and local barrier-removal initiatives for eligible groups including charities, community organisations, schools, social enterprises, and some NHS providers.
What is the Small Grants Programme?
The Small Grants Programme supports small, practical active travel projects that encourage more people to make everyday trips by walking, wheeling, or cycling.
It provides flexible grants of up to £5,000 for one-off projects or purchases that improve local access to active travel and help communities test simple new ideas.
Funding at a Glance
- Grant amount: Up to £5,000
- Funding type: Small grant for a single one-off project or purchase
- Focus: Practical solutions that increase walking, wheeling, and cycling
What Can the Grant Support?
The funding can be used for practical, community-based solutions such as:
- Cycles and adaptive cycles
- Cycle storage
- Active travel equipment
- Small local events
- Simple initiatives that remove barriers to walking, wheeling, or cycling
The aim is to make active travel more accessible, inclusive, and easier in everyday life.
Why This Grant Matters
This programme helps communities make small but meaningful improvements that support:
- Healthier lifestyles
- Sustainable travel
- Inclusive mobility
- Community-led local solutions
It is especially useful for groups that need simple, low-cost funding to try practical ideas quickly.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Voluntary and community organisations
- Registered charities
- Social enterprises
- Community Interest Companies (CICs) with at least two directors
- Groups of organisations led by a voluntary/community organisation or social enterprise
- Education providers (primary, secondary, further, and higher education)
- NHS healthcare providers, including NHS Trusts and GP practices
- Current Wheels and Walks programme groups
- TfGM bike libraries
Who is Not Eligible?
The following cannot apply:
- Individuals
- Sole traders
- Applicants applying on behalf of another organisation
- Organisations without at least two unconnected people on their board or committee
- Companies set up mainly to make profits for private distribution
How to Apply / What to Do
Step 1: Identify the Local Barrier
Clearly explain the local issue, such as lack of cycle access, no storage, or low active travel participation.
Step 2: Propose a Simple One-Off Solution
Choose one clear activity or purchase that directly helps people walk, wheel, or cycle more.
Step 3: Build a Clear Budget
Keep costs realistic and within the £5,000 limit.
Step 4: Show Community Impact
Explain who will benefit and how the project will improve active travel in your area.
Step 5: Confirm Eligibility
Check your organisation’s legal structure and governance before submitting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing a project that is too large or complex
- Failing to show a clear link to walking, wheeling, or cycling
- Applying without checking eligibility rules
- Using vague project descriptions
- Not clearly explaining the local barrier
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on one clear local need
- Keep the project simple and practical
- Use a realistic budget
- Highlight inclusion and accessibility
- Show how the grant will lead to more active travel
FAQs
1. How much funding is available?
Applicants can request up to £5,000.
2. What is the grant for?
It supports one-off projects or purchases that help people walk, wheel, or cycle more.
3. Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include charities, community groups, social enterprises, schools, NHS providers, Wheels and Walks groups, and TfGM bike libraries.
4. Can individuals apply?
No. Individuals and sole traders are not eligible.
5. What types of projects can be funded?
Projects may include adaptive cycles, cycle storage, equipment, small events, and practical local initiatives that remove barriers to active travel.
6. Are for-profit companies eligible?
No. Companies created mainly for private profit distribution are not eligible.
Conclusion
The Small Grants Programme is a useful funding opportunity for organisations looking to support community active travel through simple, practical, and inclusive solutions.
With up to £5,000 available, it is ideal for grassroots projects that help more people walk, wheel, and cycle while promoting healthier and more sustainable travel habits.
For more information, visit Transport for Greater Manchester.
