Deadline: 20-Mar-2026
The Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is offering the 2026/27 Community Development Grant – Small to formally constituted, community-managed organisations. Grants of £1,001–£2,000 support local projects that strengthen community engagement, promote democratic governance, and enhance transparency in operations.
Program Overview
The Community Development Grant – Small aims to support autonomous, not-for-profit organisations that actively serve local communities. The grant is designed to strengthen organisational capacity, promote inclusive participation, and ensure good governance practices.
Objectives
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Empower small community organisations with clear structures
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Promote transparency through democratic decision-making
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Support activities benefiting the local community
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Encourage inclusive membership and participation from all segments of the community
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, organisations must:
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Be formally constituted and community-managed
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Operate as a not-for-personal profit entity
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Serve a defined local community
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Maintain inclusive membership representing a broad range of community opinions
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Hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM) each year, with equal voting rights for all members
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Appoint a management committee or board of directors through a democratic process at the AGM
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Present an annual report and statement of accounts at the AGM
Note: Informal groups or organisations without structured management are not eligible.
Funding Details
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Grant Amount: £1,001–£2,000
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Purpose: Support activities that directly benefit the local community
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Funding can be used for projects that:
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Enhance organisational capacity
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Promote democratic governance
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Improve community engagement
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Facilitate inclusive and transparent operations
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How to Apply
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Confirm that your organisation meets all governance and eligibility criteria
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Prepare documentation demonstrating:
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Formal constitution
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AGM reports and accounts
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Inclusive membership policies
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Clear management committee structure
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Submit the application form by the stated deadline (check council website for the 2026/27 timeline)
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Ensure all supporting documents clearly show accountability, transparency, and community impact
Tips for a Strong Application
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Highlight how your activities benefit the local community
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Provide evidence of inclusive membership and participation
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Demonstrate that democratic governance processes are in place
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Include clear AGM reports, annual accounts, and management structures
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Show how the grant will enhance organisational capacity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
Formally constituted, community-managed, not-for-profit organisations with inclusive membership and a clear democratic structure.
2. What activities are eligible?
Activities that directly benefit the local community, strengthen organisational capacity, and promote transparency and governance.
3. How much funding is available?
Grants range from £1,001 to £2,000 per eligible organisation.
4. Are informal groups eligible?
No. Only organisations with formal constitutions and structured management are eligible.
5. What governance documents are required?
Annual General Meeting reports, annual accounts, and evidence of committee/board appointment through a democratic process.
6. Is membership inclusivity important?
Yes. Organisations must demonstrate open and inclusive membership representing a broad range of community opinions.
7. How is the grant assessed?
Applications are evaluated based on governance, community benefit, inclusivity, and accountability.
Conclusion
The Community Development Grant – Small (Call 2, 2026/27) provides vital support for small, well-governed community organisations. It empowers groups to deliver meaningful projects, strengthen democratic practices, and enhance transparency while engaging inclusively with their communities.
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For more information, visit Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.