Deadline: 22-Apr-2026
The Our Cultural Heart Fund provides financial support to VCSE organisations in Kirklees for creative projects that enrich culture, wellbeing, and community connections. Funding supports initiatives that enhance access to culture and heritage, reduce social isolation, promote inclusion, and build skills for disadvantaged groups. Spring Round 1 opens 11 March 2026, with grants available up to £25,000.
Overview
The Our Cultural Heart Fund supports voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations in Kirklees to deliver creative projects that strengthen culture, wellbeing, and community engagement. Projects are expected to:
- Enhance access to and participation in culture and heritage.
- Promote health and wellbeing through creativity and engagement with nature.
- Strengthen inclusion, diversity, and reduce social isolation.
- Build knowledge, confidence, and opportunities for disadvantaged groups.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Voluntary and faith groups
- Registered charities
- Community Interest Companies (CICs) that do not distribute dividends
- Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs)
- Schools and parent associations
- Arts and heritage organisations
- Health and wellbeing groups
- Youth organisations and environmental groups
- Other constituted community-led organisations demonstrating clear local benefit
Restrictions:
- Only one application per organisation for a single project is allowed.
- Projects must take place within Kirklees.
Funding Details
- Grant levels: Up to £10,000 or up to £25,000 depending on project scale and scope.
- Eligible costs: Materials, staffing, community engagement activities, and other project delivery costs.
- Projects should ideally address more than one of the fund’s objectives to maximize impact.
How to Apply / How It Works
- Check eligibility: Ensure your organisation meets the VCSE criteria.
- Prepare your project: Align with one or more fund objectives and demonstrate clear local benefits.
- Submit your application: Only one application per organisation per round is allowed.
- Await assessment: Applications are evaluated based on impact, community benefit, and project feasibility.
- Deliver the project: Funded initiatives must be executed within Kirklees and in line with stated objectives.
Best Practices & Tips
- Focus on projects that achieve multiple objectives, such as combining cultural engagement with wellbeing or inclusion.
- Clearly demonstrate local community benefits and measurable outcomes.
- Include a detailed budget covering materials, staffing, and engagement activities.
- Engage diverse groups to ensure inclusive participation.
Why It Matters
The fund strengthens Kirklees’ cultural ecosystem, promotes wellbeing, and fosters community cohesion. By supporting VCSE organisations, it ensures that creative initiatives reach those who benefit most, enhancing inclusivity, skill-building, and local connections.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for funding?
VCSE organisations, including charities, CICs, faith groups, CASCs, schools, arts and heritage organisations, and other community-led bodies in Kirklees.
2. What is the maximum grant available?
Projects can request up to £10,000 or up to £25,000 depending on scale and scope.
3. Can I submit more than one application?
No, only one application per organisation for a single project is allowed.
4. What costs can the grant cover?
Eligible costs include materials, staffing, and community engagement activities. Equipment purchases or unrelated expenses are not covered.
5. When does Spring Round 1 open and close?
Applications open on 11 March 2026 and close on 22 April 2026.
6. Must the project take place in Kirklees?
Yes, all funded projects must be delivered within the Kirklees area.
7. Should projects address multiple objectives?
Ideally, yes. Projects that meet more than one fund objective—such as combining cultural engagement with inclusion or wellbeing—are more competitive.
Conclusion
The Our Cultural Heart Fund empowers VCSE organisations in Kirklees to deliver impactful creative projects that enhance culture, wellbeing, and community connections. By funding initiatives with clear local benefits, the fund fosters inclusion, engagement, and vibrant community life across the region.
For more information, visit One Community Foundation.