Deadline: 19-Oct-2025
The Active Thames Fund is now open for applications, offering grants to clubs and community groups in London, Kent, and Essex that want to grow participation in watersports or improve use of the Thames Path National Trail.
It aims to make blue spaces more accessible and inclusive, especially for underrepresented groups, while promoting health and wellbeing through physical activity on and alongside waterways.
Delivered by a partnership including Active Essex, Active Kent and Medway, London Sport, British Rowing, Canoe & River Trust, RYA, Paddle UK, Thames Path Trail, the PLA and others, the Fund has already awarded over £550,000 to dozens of groups, benefitting thousands of individuals across 63 clubs.
This year, more than £100,000 is available. Most grants awarded in past rounds have been around £5,000, though groups that can demonstrate strong delivery and align with multiple objectives (for example inclusion, access, workforce development) might apply for larger amounts.
To be eligible, applicants must be formally constituted not-for-profit or statutory organisations operating along waterways or blue space in Greater London, Kent or Essex. Projects must begin delivery by Spring 2026 and conclude by Autumn 2026. Policies on safeguarding and equal opportunities must be in place, and for public-facing activities the project must be digitally accessible.
Organisations will be assessed based on their delivery plan, how well they meet Active Thames aims, safety and environmental considerations, accessibility, and ability to complete in timeframe.
For more information, visit Active Thames.