Skip to main content

Welcome to our new website. You may still see some pages from our old site as we move things over.

How to apply

Start your application

You can apply online using our application form.

Apply online

Continue online application

You can also view a complete list of the questions before you apply.

If you need help or have any communication needs

We want to make sure everyone can access this funding. If you need communication support or want to apply in a different way, we’re happy to help.

We are available to help with specific questions about the programme or criteria, but are unable to give advice on your project as a whole.

How much you can apply for

You can apply for between £1 million and £5 million, spread over 5 to 10 years.

How long will it take

The full application process usually takes around 9 months.

There are 2 stages:

  • first stage: we aim to give you a decision within 3 months of receiving your application

  • second stage: If your application goes further, it may take up to 6 months to gather more information and make a final decision

What to include in your application

At the first stage, we’re looking for a summary of what you aim to achieve and how your work meets our criteria. You do not need detailed plans yet, but you should show how your work will create lasting change, led or shaped by people with lived experience. If your application progresses to stage two, we’ll ask for more details.

You can see a full list of questions and guidance in the online application form.

What happens after you apply

After you send us your application, here’s what you can expect:

  • we’ll email you to confirm we’ve received your application

  • we’ll assess your application and contact you if we need more information

  • we’ll let you know if we’re taking your application to the second stage. If not, we’ll explain why

  • if it does go to the second stage, we’ll contact you for more details and talk to you about timings

  • we’ll make a final decision and let you know if we’ve awarded funding

In some circumstances we may invite unsuccessful applicants to submit a development grant proposal.

Our terms and conditions

If you apply, you’ll need to agree to our funding terms and conditions.

How we use your data

Read our privacy notice to see how we use your personal information.

If we work with delivery partners in future, we may need to share your data with them. We’ll always let you know if this happens.

Checks we carry out

As we’re distributing public money, we carry out some checks on the information you give us. Learn more about our checks.