Deadline: 01-Feb-2026
The Thriving Communities Fund by the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation provides grants of £10,000–£50,000 to charities and not-for-profit organisations in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. It supports community-led projects that reduce isolation, enhance wellbeing, and strengthen social connections to build resilient local communities.
Overview of the Thriving Communities Fund
The Thriving Communities Fund is designed to empower organisations that create lasting positive change in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. It focuses on community-led projects that improve quality of life, foster inclusion, and strengthen social cohesion. By addressing local needs, the fund helps communities thrive sustainably.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Registered charities
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Not-for-profit organisations
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Community interest companies or community-led groups
Projects must:
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Bring people together and reduce social isolation
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Promote wellbeing and mental health support
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Foster learning, skills development, and community engagement
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Demonstrate measurable benefits for local residents
Why It Matters
The fund addresses critical local issues:
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Social Isolation: Many residents face loneliness; projects strengthen connections.
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Mental Health: Initiatives can improve emotional wellbeing and resilience.
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Community Resilience: Strong social networks help communities cope with challenges.
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Skill Development: Learning and personal growth enhance individual and community potential.
Funding Details
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Grant Amounts: £10,000 to £50,000
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Purpose: Support scaling or deepening community-led initiatives
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Focus Areas: Inclusion, wellbeing, social connection, skills, and learning
How to Apply
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Check Eligibility: Confirm your organisation meets the criteria.
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Define Project Impact: Clearly describe how your project benefits the community.
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Prepare Application: Include objectives, planned activities, expected outcomes, and budget.
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Submit Proposal: Follow the application process on the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation website.
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Assessment: Applications are reviewed based on impact, feasibility, and alignment with community needs.
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Funding Notification: Successful applicants are informed and can begin project implementation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting incomplete or ineligible applications
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Failing to demonstrate clear community benefits
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Providing vague plans without measurable outcomes
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Ignoring alignment with fund priorities, such as inclusion, wellbeing, or skills development
FAQs
1. What types of projects are eligible? Projects that enhance social connections, reduce isolation, support mental health, or improve skills.
2. Can new organisations apply? Yes, if registered as a charity, not-for-profit, or community-led group.
3. What is the maximum funding amount? £50,000 per project.
4. Are there geographic restrictions? Yes, the project must benefit Cambridgeshire or Peterborough communities.
5. How long is the application review process? Applicants are typically notified within a few weeks of submission.
6. Can funding cover operational costs? Yes, if directly linked to community impact.
7. What makes an application strong? Clear evidence of community benefit, measurable outcomes, and alignment with fund priorities.
Conclusion
The Thriving Communities Fund provides vital support to organisations driving positive change in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. By funding projects that foster social connections, support wellbeing, and build resilient communities, the fund enables sustainable, community-led solutions that enhance the quality of life for residents.
For more information, visit Cambridgeshire Community Foundation.