Make It Happen Fund: Small Grants for Community Action in Islington (UK)

Deadline: 11-May-2026

The Make It Happen Fund provides small grants of up to £500 to Islington residents and community groups for projects that improve wellbeing, encourage community engagement, and strengthen local connections. The fund supports activities ranging from community events and arts projects to mental health and family support initiatives, aiming to foster pride, happiness, and connectedness within the local area.

Overview of the Fund

The Make It Happen Fund is a small grants programme supporting local residents and community groups in Islington to take action on issues they care about. It encourages projects that:

• Improve physical and mental wellbeing (Healthy)

• Promote active citizenship, volunteering, and engagement (Happy)

• Foster community connections and resident participation (Connected)

The fund allows individuals and groups to bring new ideas to life, organise local events, or enhance ongoing activities that benefit the community.

Focus Areas

1. Healthy: Activities that support mental and physical wellbeing, such as exercise classes, health workshops, or mindfulness sessions.

2. Happy: Initiatives that encourage community involvement, volunteering, or social participation, like arts festivals or family support programs.

3. Connected: Projects that strengthen community bonds, including book clubs, community art installations, cultural events, or seasonal celebrations.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Islington residents

• Community groups or local organisations based in Islington

• Projects must align with at least one of the fund’s three core aims: Healthy, Happy, or Connected

Funding Details

• Grant Amount: Up to £500 per project

• Supported Activities: Community events, cultural programs, arts initiatives, wellbeing projects, or other activities benefiting local residents

• Project Requirements: Activities must support Islington residents and demonstrate positive community impact

How to Apply / How It Works

1. Identify Project Aim: Select at least one of the fund’s aims—Healthy, Happy, or Connected.

2. Plan the Project: Detail the activity, expected outcomes, and how it benefits the local community.

3. Prepare the Application: Submit online through the fund’s platform, including project description, budget, and timeline.

4. Application Deadlines:

   • Rolling submissions are accepted year-round

   • Two main deadlines: May and October

   • Projects must occur after the relevant deadline

5. Funding Decision: Successful applicants receive up to £500 and guidance for project delivery.

Why This Fund Matters

• Empowers residents to take action on local issues they care about

• Encourages community involvement, volunteering, and pride

• Supports small-scale innovation that improves wellbeing and social connections

• Strengthens resilience and collaboration between residents, housing landlords, and local organisations

Common Tips for Applicants

• Ensure the project aligns clearly with one or more fund aims

• Keep the budget realistic within the £500 limit

• Focus on activities that benefit the wider community

• Plan projects to occur after the application deadline to avoid scheduling conflicts

• Provide clear details of the expected impact on participants and the community

Examples of Supported Projects

• Community cooking sessions or food workshops

• Arts festivals or cultural events

• Mental health support initiatives

• Family or parent support groups

• Community book clubs or reading programs

• Community art installations

• Seasonal or festive celebrations designed for local residents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the Make It Happen Fund?
Islington residents and community groups or local organisations based in Islington.

2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to £500 per project.

3. What types of activities are supported?
Community events, arts programs, wellbeing initiatives, family support activities, or other projects benefiting local residents.

4. Can applications be submitted at any time?
Yes, the fund operates as a rolling programme, with main deadlines in May and October.

5. When must the project take place?
Projects must occur after the relevant deadline, depending on the season and timing of your application.

6. How do I apply?
Submit your application online with a project description, budget, and timeline.

7. What are the core aims of the fund?
Healthy (wellbeing), Happy (community engagement), and Connected (building social ties).

Conclusion

The Make It Happen Fund enables Islington residents and community groups to take action on local priorities, supporting small projects that improve wellbeing, foster happiness, and strengthen community connections. By funding activities up to £500, the programme promotes creativity, participation, and pride within the Islington community.

For more information, visit Islington Giving.