Request for Applications: Sea-Changers Coastal Fountain Fund 2026 (UK)

The Sea-Changers Coastal Fountain Fund provides UK-based not-for-profit organisations with grants up to £2,500 to install public water refill fountains. The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastic bottle waste, protect coastal environments, and promote sustainable behaviours among coastal visitors.

Program Overview

The Coastal Fountain Fund supports communities taking action to protect the UK’s coastal and marine environments by increasing access to free drinking water. By installing water refill fountains, organisations help reduce plastic waste, encourage sustainable habits, and protect ecologically sensitive areas.

Key objectives include:

• Reducing single-use plastic water bottles along UK coasts

• Providing free, accessible drinking water for coastal visitors

• Supporting environmental education and awareness

• Encouraging long-term behaviour change toward sustainable water use

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include UK-based not-for-profit organisations, such as:

• Charities

• Local councils

• Community interest companies

• Schools

Requirements:

• Must have installation plans, necessary permissions, and stakeholder engagement in place

• Must demonstrate the ability to maintain the fountain for at least two years after installation

• Projects should be operational during 2026, ideally by summer

Grant Details

• Grant Amount: Up to £2,500 per project

• Purpose: Covers the cost of purchasing a single water fountain unit only

• Installation and maintenance costs: Not included; applicants must plan independently

• Selection: Decisions made by an independent grants panel

How to Apply

1. Prepare Project Proposal: Include location, installation plans, stakeholder engagement, and maintenance strategy

2. Define Impact: Explain environmental and public benefits, including high visitor or ecologically sensitive areas

3. Budget Planning: Detail the cost of the fountain unit and any additional funding sources for installation or maintenance

4. Submit Application: Follow Sea-Changers application process before the deadline

5. Implementation: Ensure fountain is installed and operational during 2026

6. Monitoring & Reporting: Provide water usage data to estimate reduction in single-use plastic bottles

Key Considerations

• Focus on visibility and impact: fountains should be in busy or environmentally sensitive locations

• Ensure long-term sustainability: demonstrate resources and arrangements for ongoing upkeep

• Track measurable outcomes such as water refills and reduction in plastic waste

Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight community involvement and partnerships

• Demonstrate the environmental need in the selected location

• Include a clear maintenance plan with roles and responsibilities

• Show potential for educational or behavioural impact on visitors

FAQ

1. Who can apply? UK-based charities, councils, community interest companies, and schools
2. How much funding is available? Up to £2,500 per project for one water fountain unit
3. Does the grant cover installation and maintenance? No, it only covers the purchase cost of the fountain
4. When should the fountain be operational? Ideally by summer 2026
5. What sustainability requirements exist? Applicants must maintain the fountain for at least two years and track water usage
6. How are grants selected? An independent grants panel reviews applications based on environmental impact and feasibility
7. Can multiple fountains be funded per organisation? The fund primarily supports one fountain unit per successful application

Why It Matters

The Coastal Fountain Fund empowers communities to take practical action against marine litter, reduce plastic pollution, and create long-lasting environmental impact. By providing accessible drinking water along the coast, the initiative fosters sustainable behaviours and protects valuable marine ecosystems.