Deadline: 07-Dec-2025

Active Essex’s FYA Small Grants fund offers up to £2,000 for organisations delivering physical activity and sports programmes in priority Essex localities. Round 2 targets adults from ethnically diverse backgrounds and young people facing socio-economic, health, or accessibility barriers. The fund supports a wide range of non-profit and community organisations aiming to improve physical activity access and wellbeing.

Active Essex FYA Small Grants: Up to £2,000 for Community Sports and Physical Activity Projects

Overview

Active Essex is inviting applications for Round 2 of its FYA Small Grants fund, offering up to £2,000 to support community organisations that deliver physical activity or sports programmes. This round focuses on improving access for underrepresented groups and strengthening community wellbeing across selected Essex local authority areas.

Priority Focus Areas

Round 2 targets projects that support:

• Adults from ethnically diverse communities

• Children and young people who are:

  • From low socio-economic backgrounds

  • Living with disabilities or long-term health conditions

  • Experiencing mental health challenges

  • From ethnically diverse communities

Eligible Local Authority Areas

Funding applies only to projects delivered within selected Essex County Council footprint areas.
Not eligible in this round: Basildon and Brentwood (funding fully allocated in Round 1).

Who Can Apply?

A wide range of community-focused organisations can apply, including:

• Formally constituted clubs and associations

• Trusts

• Registered charities

• Local authorities

• Social enterprises

• Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs)

• Community Interest Companies (CICs)

• Non-profit companies limited by guarantee

• Sole traders delivering community physical activity initiatives

Why This Grant Matters

This funding helps organisations:

• Expand inclusive physical activity and sports opportunities

• Reach underserved populations

• Support the health and wellbeing of diverse communities

• Reduce inequality in participation

• Strengthen community cohesion and resilience

What Types of Projects Are Supported?

Projects must focus on increasing physical activity participation. Examples include:

• Community sports sessions

• Inclusive fitness programmes

• Activities for youth facing socio-economic barriers

• Programmes designed for people with disabilities or long-term conditions

• Culturally relevant activity sessions for ethnically diverse adults

• Mental health–supportive movement programmes

How to Apply

While specific application steps may vary, applicants typically need to:

1. Review eligibility criteria and confirm that activities occur within approved Essex areas.

2. Ensure the project aligns with priority groups targeted in Round 2.

3. Prepare a clear project description outlining planned activities and expected outcomes.

4. Demonstrate community need and how the grant will support participation.

5. Submit the application through the Active Essex funding platform before the deadline (check fund page for current dates).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for projects located in Basildon or Brentwood

• Proposing activities that do not involve physical activity or sport

• Failing to target one or more priority populations

• Submitting incomplete organisational documentation

• Requesting funding for ineligible costs (e.g., major capital projects)

FAQ

1. How much funding can organisations apply for?

Up to £2,000 per project.

2. Which locations are eligible?

Projects must be delivered within ten Essex local authority areas under the Essex County Council footprint, excluding Basildon and Brentwood.

3. Can sole traders apply?

Yes. Sole traders delivering community physical activity programmes are eligible.

4. Are youth-focused projects allowed?

Yes. Children and young people from priority groups are central to this round.

5. What kinds of costs can the grant cover?

Project delivery costs such as equipment, instructor fees, venue hire, accessibility support, or programme materials.

6. What groups must projects target?

Adults from ethnically diverse communities and young people facing socio-economic, health or accessibility barriers.

7. Does the organisation need to be based in Essex?

No, but the project must be delivered within an eligible Essex local authority area.

Conclusion

The Active Essex FYA Small Grants fund offers a meaningful opportunity for community organisations to expand physical activity access and support the wellbeing of marginalised groups. With up to £2,000 available, this is an impactful and accessible funding stream for organisations committed to reducing health inequalities and promoting inclusive sport across Essex.

For more information, visit Active Essex.