Open Call: Community Action Microgrants Program (UK)

The Community Action Microgrants Program provides up to £2,500 to support grassroots, citizen-led projects that promote inclusion and community cohesion. Smaller informal groups can apply for up to £500, with all projects to be completed within one year.

Overview

The Community Action Microgrants Program supports local, citizen-led initiatives that strengthen communities and promote social cohesion, equality, and inclusion.

Established in memory of Louie Ward Herbert, the programme prioritises small and emerging community groups.

Key Grant Details

• Small Grants: Up to £500 (informal/unconstituted groups)
• Standard Grants: Up to £2,500 (formal organisations)
• Project Duration: Up to 1 year
• Funding Type: Microgrants for community projects

Programme Objectives

The programme aims to:

• Support grassroots community initiatives
• Promote social inclusion and equality
• Encourage community participation and cohesion
• Strengthen smaller and newer organisations

Key Concept: Social Cohesion

Social cohesion refers to the strength of relationships and sense of belonging within a community, fostering inclusion and mutual support.

What the Grant Supports

Eligible Activities

• Community development projects
• Inclusion and equality initiatives
• Citizen-led local activities
• Engagement programmes for underrepresented groups

Expected Outcomes

• Stronger community connections
• Increased participation and inclusion
• Empowered grassroots organisations

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

1. Informal or Unconstituted Groups

• Up to £500 funding
• Must have at least 3 members
• Annual income below £10,000

2. Formal Organisations

• Up to £2,500 funding
• Must be:
  • Incorporated not-for-profit organisations
  • Registered with relevant regulatory bodies

3. Small Unincorporated Groups

• Income below £10,000
• Grant must not exceed annual income

Ineligible Applicants and Activities

Not Eligible

• Individuals
• Statutory services
• Overseas organisations or activities

Ineligible Activities

• Projects already completed
• Discriminatory or exclusionary initiatives
• Political or religious promotion
• Animal-focused projects
• Building capital appeals
• Grant-making to other organisations
• Overseas travel

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Confirm eligibility (group type and income level)
2. Identify a community-focused project
3. Define:
   • Objectives and activities
   • Target community
   • Expected outcomes
4. Prepare a simple budget (within grant limits)
5. Ensure project can be completed within 1 year
6. Submit application through the official channel
7. Await funding decision

How Applications Are Evaluated

Applications are assessed based on:

• Community benefit and impact
• Alignment with inclusion and cohesion goals
• Feasibility and clarity of project
• Engagement of local participants

Why This Program Matters

This programme is important because it:

• Empowers grassroots and small community groups
• Promotes inclusive and cohesive communities
• Provides accessible funding for local initiatives
• Encourages citizen participation and leadership

It enables communities to create locally driven solutions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying as an individual instead of a group
• Exceeding income or funding thresholds
• Proposing ineligible activities
• Lack of clear community impact

Practical Tips

• Keep the project simple and community-focused
• Clearly show who benefits and how
• Ensure inclusivity in design and delivery
• Stay within funding and eligibility limits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding is available?

Up to £500 for informal groups and £2,500 for formal organisations.

2. Who can apply?

Community groups and not-for-profit organisations.

3. Can individuals apply?

No, individuals are not eligible.

4. What is the project duration?

Projects must be completed within one year.

5. Are small informal groups eligible?

Yes, if they meet membership and income criteria.

6. Can funding be used for past projects?

No, retrospective funding is not allowed.

7. Why is this programme important?

It strengthens local communities and promotes inclusion.

Conclusion

The Community Action Microgrants Program provides accessible funding for grassroots initiatives that build stronger, more inclusive communities. By prioritising small groups and citizen-led projects, it supports meaningful local change.

Groups with clear community impact, inclusive approaches, and realistic plans are most likely to succeed.