Deadline: 16-Jan-2026
Hertfordshire Community Foundation offers grants of up to £10,000 to support community-led projects that address identified local needs across Hertfordshire. The programme prioritises well-planned initiatives with clear outcomes that can deliver measurable positive impact within 12 months.
Overview
Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) provides grant funding to support projects that respond to identified needs and improve the quality of life for residents across Hertfordshire.
The programme focuses on empowering grassroots organisations and community groups that are closely connected to the people they serve and can demonstrate meaningful local impact.
Funding Priorities
HCF prioritises projects that clearly demonstrate how the funding will make a positive difference within the community.
Supported initiatives should have well-defined objectives, measurable outcomes, realistic budgets, and a clear plan to deliver activities within 12 months of receiving the grant. Strong community connections and local engagement are central to funding decisions.
Grant Amounts and Availability
The HCF Grants programme offers funding of up to £5,000 or £10,000, depending on availability and project suitability.
Applications for £5,000 grants are currently closed, while £10,000 grants remain open throughout the year, subject to available funds. HCF also manages several dedicated funds that focus on specific locations or community groups within Hertfordshire.
Targeted and Named Funds
Some grants are distributed through specific funds designed to support defined communities or geographic areas. These include funds such as the Friends of Bushey Seniors, the Elliston Family Fund, the Frank Litchfield Trust, and the Harpenden Building Society fund.
Applicants are encouraged to indicate if they wish to be considered for a particular fund, although HCF will work to match successful applications to the most appropriate funding source.
Eligible Applicants
The programme is open to a wide range of not-for-profit organisations operating in Hertfordshire.
Eligible applicants include registered charities, community or voluntary groups with a written constitution or governing document, social enterprises or Community Interest Companies limited by guarantee, and other recognised non-profit structures such as co-operative societies.
Project Expectations
Funded projects must be able to spend the full grant amount within 12 months of the award date.
HCF places strong emphasis on initiatives that are community-driven, locally relevant, and capable of demonstrating clear and measurable benefits for Hertfordshire residents within a defined timeframe.
Capacity Building and Support
In addition to grant funding, Hertfordshire Community Foundation offers training and development opportunities for new and experienced fundraisers.
These courses aim to strengthen fundraising skills, improve organisational capacity, and help community groups maximise the impact and sustainability of the funding they receive.
Conclusion
The Hertfordshire Community Foundation Grants programme plays a vital role in supporting grassroots initiatives that address local needs across the county.
For more information, visit Hertfordshire Community Foundation.
