Deadline: 04-Feb-2026
The Grow Wild Community Programme provides grants of up to £2,000 to UK-based non-profit organisations delivering community-led urban projects using native plants or fungi. Funded projects aim to transform urban spaces, support wildlife, and engage communities in sustainable growing activities within settlements of 10,000 or more people.
What is the Grow Wild Community Programme?
The Grow Wild Community Programme supports non-profit organisations to create positive change in urban spaces across the UK through community-led growing activities. Projects must use UK native plants or fungi, enhance local wildlife habitats, and actively involve local residents in transforming community spaces.
Funding Details
Grant Amount: Up to £2,000 per project
Eligible Uses:
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Planting UK native plants or fungi in urban community spaces
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Wildlife-friendly habitat creation
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Community engagement and participation in growing activities
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Connecting multiple growing locations through group initiatives
Exclusions: -
Rural areas or protected zones (e.g., Sites of Special Scientific Interest)
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Projects requiring planning permission
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Organisations distributing profits to directors, shareholders, or members
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Individuals, sole traders, schools, statutory bodies, or non-UK entities
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must be:
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Constituted non-profit organisations, including charities, voluntary/community organisations, not-for-profit companies, Community Interest Companies, Charitable Incorporated Organisations, or Community Benefit Societies
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Delivering projects in urban environments (settlements of 10,000+ inhabitants) within the UK
Key Requirements: -
Two designated contacts over 18: a lead project contact and a secondary contact responsible for finances, not related by family
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A bank account in the organisation’s name to receive grant funds
Why This Grant Matters
The Grow Wild Community Programme:
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Encourages community engagement and stewardship of urban spaces
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Supports biodiversity and wildlife through native plant or fungi projects
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Transforms underutilised urban areas into vibrant, inclusive green spaces
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Provides non-profits with resources to deliver sustainable, measurable impact in local communities
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Ensure your organisation is a qualified UK non-profit and project is located in an urban area.
Step 2: Prepare Project Proposal Include objectives, urban location, planned activities, expected outcomes, and budget.
Step 3: Assign Contacts Designate a lead contact for delivery and a secondary contact for financial accountability.
Step 4: Submit Application Apply through the official Grow Wild portal, providing required organisational and contact details.
Step 5: Project Implementation Execute the project in line with approved activities, engaging the local community and enhancing urban green spaces.
Common Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
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Ensure projects are located in urban areas with populations of 10,000 or more
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Clearly demonstrate community involvement and wildlife benefits
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Avoid rural or protected locations
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Provide full details of two eligible contacts and bank account verification
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Focus on sustainability and measurable outcomes for community and environment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum grant amount? £2,000 per project
2. Who can apply? Constituted UK non-profit organisations delivering urban community projects
3. Are rural projects eligible? No, only urban environments with 10,000+ inhabitants are supported
4. Can individuals or schools apply? No, only registered non-profit organisations are eligible
5. What types of activities are funded? Urban planting with native plants/fungi, wildlife support, and community engagement
6. How many contacts are required? Two, including a lead project contact and a financial secondary contact
7. Are projects on local authority land eligible? Yes, if delivered by independent community groups, not statutory bodies
Conclusion
The Grow Wild Community Programme empowers UK non-profits to transform urban spaces through native planting, wildlife support, and community participation. By providing funding, guidance, and structure, the programme fosters biodiversity, social engagement, and sustainable urban green spaces across the UK.
For more information, visit Royal Botanic Gardens.
