RFAs: Community Development Grant – Medium (UK)

Deadline: 20-Mar-2026

The Community Development Grant – Medium Call 2 2026/27 provides funding of £2,001–£10,000 to formally constituted, community-managed organisations. The grant supports not-for-personal-profit organisations operating at a local community level, promoting inclusive membership, democratic governance, and accountability through Annual General Meetings. It strengthens community-led initiatives while ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and good governance.

Overview

The Community Development Grant – Medium Call 2 2026/27 offers financial support to community organisations delivering initiatives that benefit local residents. Eligible organisations must be formally constituted, community-managed, and autonomous, operating on a not-for-personal-profit basis with the broader community’s interests at heart.

The program provides resources to strengthen local initiatives while promoting strong governance practices, inclusive participation, and organisational transparency.

Funding Details

• Funding range: £2,001 – £10,000

• Purpose: To support community-led projects addressing local needs and enhancing community wellbeing

Eligibility Requirements

Eligible organisations must:

• Be formally constituted and autonomous

• Operate on a not-for-personal-profit basis

• Demonstrate commitment to wider community interests

• Work primarily at a local community level

Governance and Structural Requirements

Applicants must meet the following governance standards:

1. Inclusive Membership: Governing documents must confirm membership is open to the full range of community opinion.

2. Annual General Meeting (AGM): Each member must have an equal vote at the AGM.

3. Management Committee or Board: A committee or board of directors must be democratically appointed at the AGM.

4. Annual Reporting: The committee or board must present an annual report at the AGM.

5. Statement of Accounts: An annual statement of accounts must be shared with members during the AGM.

These requirements ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusive decision-making.

Purpose and Impact

The Community Development Grant aims to:

• Strengthen community-led initiatives and local engagement

• Promote good governance, accountability, and transparency

• Ensure inclusive participation in organisational decision-making

• Support sustainable projects that deliver tangible benefits to the local community

How to Apply

Applicants should:

1. Confirm eligibility and compliance with all governance and structural requirements

2. Provide governing documents, evidence of AGM processes, annual reports, and statements of accounts

3. Submit the application following the Council’s guidelines and deadlines

Applications are assessed based on organisational eligibility, governance compliance, and the potential impact of proposed community initiatives.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without being formally constituted or autonomous

• Failing to demonstrate inclusive membership or democratic election processes

• Omitting annual reports or financial statements

• Submitting proposals that do not clearly benefit the local community

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Community Development Grant?
   Eligible applicants are formally constituted, community-managed, autonomous organisations operating on a not-for-personal-profit basis at the local community level.
2. What is the funding range?
   The grant provides between £2,001 and £10,000 per project.
3. Do organisations need to hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM)?
   Yes. All eligible organisations must hold an AGM where each member has an equal vote.
4. What governance documentation is required?
   Applicants must provide a governing document, evidence of AGM processes, annual reports, and an annual statement of accounts.
5. Can unincorporated or informal community groups apply?
   No. Only formally constituted, autonomous organisations meeting governance requirements are eligible.
6. What types of projects are supported?
   Projects must benefit the wider community and align with the organisation’s objectives to deliver inclusive, sustainable local initiatives.
7. How will applications be assessed?
   Applications are evaluated based on eligibility, compliance with governance requirements, and the potential community impact of proposed initiatives.

Conclusion

The Community Development Grant – Medium Call 2 2026/27 provides an opportunity for community organisations to secure funding for impactful local initiatives. By supporting inclusive governance, transparent reporting, and democratic decision-making, the grant strengthens sustainable community-led projects and ensures positive benefits for local residents.

For more information, visit Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.