Deadline: 28-May-2026
The Green Roots Fund provides £10,000–£500,000 grants to support community-led projects that enhance green and blue infrastructure across London. With a total budget of £12 million over three years, it focuses on biodiversity, climate resilience, and inclusive access to nature. Projects must deliver environmental and community impact and include at least 10% match funding.
Programme Overview
The Green Roots Fund supports initiatives that improve green infrastructure (parks, trees, gardens) and blue infrastructure (rivers, wetlands, water systems) across London.
It is designed to enable communities to transform local environments into healthier, more sustainable, and climate-resilient spaces.
Purpose and Core Objectives
The programme aims to strengthen urban nature while ensuring equitable access.
Core Objectives
- Enhance green and blue infrastructure
- Improve biodiversity and ecological health
- Increase climate resilience in urban areas
- Promote inclusive access to natural spaces
- Empower community participation and decision-making
Funding Overview
Total Programme Budget
- £12,000,000 (over 3 years)
Grant Size
- £10,000 to £500,000
Project Duration
- Up to 2 years
Match Funding Requirement
- Minimum 10% (cash or in-kind)
Key Focus Areas
Green Infrastructure
- Parks and public green spaces
- Community gardens and urban greening
- Tree planting and urban forestry
- Green roofs and walls
Blue Infrastructure
- Rivers and waterways
- Wetlands and ponds
- Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)
Environmental Outcomes
- Biodiversity conservation
- Habitat restoration
- Climate adaptation and resilience
Community Outcomes
- Improved health and wellbeing
- Increased access to nature
- Community engagement and participation
- Inclusive environmental governance
Eligible Applicants
Organisation Types
- Not-for-profit organisations
- Local authorities
- Housing associations
- Registered charities
- Community groups
- Social enterprises
- Schools
Key Requirements
- Must be formally constituted
- Must operate in London
- Ability to enter legal agreements
- Landowner permission (if applicable)
- Only one application per round as lead organisation
Eligible Projects
Projects must demonstrate both environmental and social impact.
Examples
- Park restoration and enhancement
- Community-led gardening initiatives
- Wetland or river restoration
- Urban tree planting programmes
- Climate-resilient landscape design
- Green space accessibility improvements
Why the Fund Matters
The Green Roots Fund addresses critical urban challenges.
Key Importance
- Tackles biodiversity loss in cities
- Supports climate adaptation strategies
- Reduces inequality in access to green spaces
- Strengthens community ownership of local environments
Long-Term Impact
- Healthier urban ecosystems
- Improved quality of life
- Increased climate resilience
- Stronger community cohesion
How the Fund Works
Application Process
- Confirm organisational eligibility
- Identify a suitable project aligned with fund priorities
- Secure landowner permission (if required)
- Arrange at least 10% match funding
- Develop a proposal with clear outcomes
- Submit application
- Assessment based on impact and feasibility
- Project delivery (up to 2 years)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Insufficient match funding
- Weak environmental impact justification
- Lack of community engagement strategy
- Missing landowner permissions
- Overly broad or unclear project scope
Best Practices for Applicants
- Demonstrate clear biodiversity and climate benefits
- Show strong community involvement
- Provide measurable outcomes and indicators
- Build partnerships with local stakeholders
- Ensure realistic budgeting and timelines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Green Roots Fund?
It is a grant programme supporting green and blue infrastructure projects in London.
How much funding is available?
Grants range from £10,000 to £500,000.
What is the total budget?
£12 million over three years.
Who can apply?
Not-for-profits, public bodies, and community organisations.
Is match funding required?
Yes, a minimum of 10%.
What types of projects are supported?
Environmental and community projects improving green and blue spaces.
How long can projects run?
Up to two years.
Conclusion
The Green Roots Fund is a major investment in London’s natural infrastructure, supporting community-led projects that enhance biodiversity, improve climate resilience, and expand access to nature. By combining environmental impact with community engagement, it contributes to building a greener, more inclusive urban future.
For more information, visit Mayor of London.
