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

How to apply

Key dates and deadlines

Launch of The Step Forward Fund

The Step Forward Fund will launch on Monday 22 June 2026.

Webinars and time to contact us

After the launch, applicants will need to join a webinar or get in touch to see if this funding is right for them.

They need to do this between Monday 22 June and Friday 17 July 2026.

Application links will then be sent to organisations who are a good fit for the fund and its aims.

Application deadline

The final deadline to submit applications is noon on Friday 11 September 2026.

Start by attending a webinar or getting in touch

There are 3 ways you can start the application process:

  • join a webinar

  • contact us at the National Lottery Community Fund

  • contact one of our partners

Join a webinar

Our webinars are online presentations that will help you understand:

  • whether this programme is a good fit for your work

  • our aims and criteria

  • things to consider before you apply

Sign up to:

Contact us

Contact us by emailing: TPW@tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

You do not need to prepare anything in advance. We’ll ask you about your work and help decide if this funding is right for you.

If you’re eligible to apply for the funding, we'll send you a link to our online application form.

Help from our partners

This programme was developed in partnership with The Phoenix Community Trust its partners. These partners are keen to:

  • help decide if this funding is right for you and your organisation

  • provide support before and during the application process

They are also organisations led by and for Global Majority and racially minoritised communities.

Contact the organisation in the area you work for help and support.