Deadline: 24-Sep-2025
The #iwill Fund 2025 is now open for applications, offering a unique chance for funders and organizations across England to champion youth‑led social action within specific localities.
The emphasis is on projects that empower young people to address meaningful issues in their communities, especially those from low‑income backgrounds. Whether led by established organizations or emerging funders, this initiative aims to support sustainable social action that keeps momentum even after the funding ends.
Funders can apply directly to gain authority to support grassroots organizations in delivering youth social action programs. Successful applicants must match the funding offered, with a minimum match of £200,000 — for instance, a £200,000 grant matched by the applicant brings the total potential impact to £400,000. In-kind contributions like services, facilities, or equipment may also count toward this match.
The funding, totaling around £3 million, is provided by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and The National Lottery Community Fund. The fund expects to finance between four and six impactful projects that will run through March 2027.
Applicants are encouraged to connect early, sharing their proposals by emailing the fund team. The outline should explain how young people will be engaged in social action within their communities, how projects will outlast the funding period, and how they will measure success and spread learning across partners. Projects should draw in youth voice and foster local collaborations that amplify positive change.
This is a prime opportunity for organizations aiming to influence and sustain youth-led civic engagement and community improvement at the local level.
For more information, visit The National Lottery Community Fund.
