Deadline: 22-May-2026
The Lintel Trust Small Grant Fund provides small-scale funding to community-led projects in Scotland that address social inequality, housing-related challenges, and community wellbeing. Grants of £500–£1,000 support initiatives that promote inclusion, independence, and participation, particularly for vulnerable groups within housing communities.
Lintel Trust Small Grant Fund 2026
Overview
The Lintel Trust Small Grant Fund supports grassroots, community-led initiatives that improve quality of life and reduce social inequalities within housing communities across Scotland.
The fund prioritises practical, short-term projects that deliver direct benefits to individuals facing housing-related challenges, including isolation, disability, and transitions from homelessness.
Funding Details
- Grant size: £500 or £1,000 per project
- Funding cycle: Quarterly decisions throughout 2026
- Project duration: Up to 12 months from award date
- Funding type: Small-scale, short-term community support
Focus Areas
Projects must align with one or more of the following priorities:
- Reducing social isolation in housing communities
- Promoting digital inclusion and access
- Supporting older people to live independently
- Enabling independent living for people with disabilities
- Assisting individuals transitioning from homelessness
- Improving wellbeing in housing communities
- Strengthening community capacity and participation
Eligible Projects (Examples)
- Digital skills workshops for tenants
- Community support groups for elderly residents
- Peer networks for individuals moving into secure housing
- Wellbeing activities within housing estates
- Inclusion initiatives for people with disabilities
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a not-for-profit organisation
(e.g., registered charity, voluntary organisation, community group) - Be based in Scotland
- Demonstrate a clear connection with a housing provider, such as:
- Housing association
- Housing co-operative
- Local authority
Who is Not Eligible?
The fund does not support:
- Individual applicants
- Staff salary costs
- Capital or building projects
- Vehicle purchases
- National campaigns or appeals
- Holidays or respite care
- Retrospective funding (projects already completed)
- Multi-year funding requests
- Projects where the grant is less than 30% of total cost
- Projects outside Scotland
Why This Fund Matters
This fund addresses critical gaps in community-level support within housing environments. It enables small organisations to:
- Deliver targeted, high-impact interventions
- Support vulnerable populations in maintaining tenancies
- Strengthen social inclusion and participation
- Improve wellbeing and independence
- Build stronger, more connected communities
How to Apply
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure your organisation meets all eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status and housing sector connection.
Step 2: Define the Project
- Identify a clear community need
- Align your project with one or more focus areas
- Ensure the project can be completed within 12 months
Step 3: Prepare Budget
- Request either £500 or £1,000
- Ensure the grant represents at least 30% of total project cost
- Exclude ineligible expenses
Step 4: Submit Application
- Applications are accepted throughout 2026
- Submit before quarterly review deadlines
Step 5: Await Decision
- Applications are reviewed quarterly
- Successful applicants receive funding for immediate project start
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as an individual instead of an organisation
- Requesting funding for salaries or capital costs
- Submitting incomplete or unclear project plans
- Failing to demonstrate connection with a housing provider
- Requesting funding below 30% of total project cost
- Proposing projects outside Scotland
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define the target group and community need
- Show measurable outcomes (e.g., number of beneficiaries)
- Keep the project simple, practical, and achievable
- Demonstrate strong links with housing organisations
- Focus on direct community impact
FAQ
1. What is the maximum funding available?
Applicants can request either £500 or £1,000 per project.
2. Can individuals apply for this fund?
No. Only not-for-profit organisations are eligible.
3. Are staff salaries covered under this grant?
No. Salary costs are not eligible for funding.
4. How long can the project run?
Projects must be completed within 12 months of receiving funding.
5. Can organisations apply multiple times?
This depends on fund rules, but each application must meet eligibility and project criteria independently.
6. What type of projects are prioritised?
Projects that directly support housing communities, reduce isolation, and improve wellbeing are prioritised.
7. Is match funding required?
Yes. The grant must represent at least 30% of the total project cost.
Conclusion
The Lintel Trust Small Grant Fund is a targeted funding opportunity for community organisations working within housing environments in Scotland. By supporting small, high-impact projects, it enables organisations to address social inequalities, improve wellbeing, and strengthen community connections. Clear alignment with fund priorities, strong community links, and practical project design are essential for success.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.
