Grants for not for profit organisations UK: funding opportunities in 2025

Grants for not for profit organisations UK are one of the most powerful funding tools available to charities, CICs, and community groups in 2025. With the right strategy, grants can unlock critical financial resources to launch new initiatives, expand existing programmes, and support day-to-day operations without relying solely on donations or trading income. In the […]

In the UK, thousands of public bodies, trusts, foundations, and corporate funders offer grants to nonprofits each year. These range from small community grants of a few hundred pounds to large multi-year awards worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. The funding landscape has evolved significantly since the pandemic, with a growing focus on wellbeing, climate action, equality, diversity, and inclusion, alongside traditional community development themes.

However, finding the right grants and successfully applying for them can be challenging. Many organisations, especially grassroots and volunteer-led groups, lack the time, expertise, or capacity to navigate complex eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application processes. Others miss out on opportunities simply because they don’t know where to look.

That’s why understanding the UK nonprofit grants landscape is essential. It’s not just about identifying funding opportunities — it’s about aligning your mission with funders’ priorities, presenting a strong case for support, and maintaining compliance once funding is secured.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

The different types of small grants and community funding programmes available across the UK.
Opportunities for grassroots and local organisations.
How to apply for charity grants effectively, including documentation, timetables, and best practices.
Priority funding themes for 2025, including wellbeing, climate action, and equality.
Key UK grant providers and databases to help you build a strong funding pipeline.

At NGO Finance Hub, we support charities, CICs, and community groups in developing sustainable financial strategies through our ngo financial management services, NGO finance courses, and financial management for NGOs training. By mastering grant applications and financial planning, your organisation can secure the resources it needs to grow and deliver lasting impact.

Small grants for UK charities — Unlocking early-stage funding

Small grants for UK charities are often the first and most accessible source of funding for many voluntary and community organisations. These grants typically range from £500 to £10,000, making them ideal for pilot projects, local community initiatives, or covering essential operational costs such as equipment, venue hire, or volunteer expenses.

Why small grants matter for charities

For grassroots organisations and newly registered charities, securing a large multi-year grant can be challenging without a proven track record. Small grants programmes offer a valuable entry point by helping organisations:

Build funding history and credibility with larger funders.
Test and refine new projects before scaling.
Strengthen governance and reporting practices through manageable funding levels.
Increase community visibility by delivering impactful local activities.

Many funders also see small grants as a way to support innovative ideas, community-led initiatives, or marginalised groups who may lack the resources to prepare complex applications.

Common sources of small grants in the UK

Across the UK, a wide range of funders offer small grant programmes to support charities and CICs. These include:

Local authorities and councils, which often run community grant schemes for projects that improve wellbeing, environment, or inclusion at the local level.
Community foundations, such as Kent Community Foundation, which distribute funding from multiple donors through thematic and locality-based programmes.
Corporate foundations, including Wesleyan Foundation and Greggs Foundation, which focus on areas like education, wellbeing, equality, and community cohesion.
National Lottery Awards for All, which provides grants of £300 to £10,000 for community-led projects across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Faith-based funders and smaller trusts supporting local community and social projects.

These grants typically have simpler application forms, quicker decision timelines, and fewer reporting requirements compared to larger funding streams — making them ideal for smaller organisations with limited administrative capacity.

Who can apply for small grants?

Eligibility criteria vary by funder, but in most cases, applicants must be:

A registered charity, CIC, or constituted community group based in the UK.
Delivering work that benefits communities within a specific geographical area.
Able to provide basic governance documents (e.g., constitution, safeguarding policy, recent accounts).
Demonstrating clear community benefit, measurable outcomes, and good financial stewardship.

Many programmes are specifically targeted at small charities with incomes below £100,000 per year, ensuring that funding reaches those who need it most.

Strategic use of small grants

Successful organisations don’t treat small grants as one-off opportunities — they use them strategically. By delivering strong outcomes and submitting high-quality reports, charities can build relationships with funders, gain credibility, and leverage small grants to secure larger funding in the future.

Community grants programmes UK — Empowering local impact

Community grants programmes UK are designed to support local initiatives that bring people together, improve wellbeing, and address community needs. These programmes are a cornerstone of the UK funding landscape, enabling charities, CICs, and voluntary groups to deliver projects that have a direct and measurable impact on the communities they serve.

Why community grants are important

Unlike national-level funding, community grants focus on place-based impact. They target neighbourhoods, towns, or regions where community organisations are best placed to understand local challenges. For many charities, especially smaller ones, this funding provides the flexibility and autonomy to design solutions that reflect real community priorities.

Community grant programmes are also a key tool for building civic participation, encouraging partnerships between charities, councils, schools, businesses, and residents. Whether it’s a youth centre refurbishment, a mental health support programme, or a local environmental initiative, community grants often fund the kinds of projects that transform everyday life at a local level.

Examples of UK community grant programmes

There is a wide variety of community grant schemes across the UK, each with different priorities and eligibility requirements. Some of the most prominent include:

The National Lottery Community Fund – One of the largest community funders in the UK, supporting projects that strengthen communities, improve lives, and build resilience. Programmes range from £300 to multi-year funding of £1 million+.
Local Authority Community Funds – Many councils operate small to medium grant schemes for projects that address health, inclusion, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.
Community Foundations Network – Over 40 community foundations across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland distribute grants on behalf of donors and trusts. Their programmes often focus on specific local themes like youth development, climate action, or food security.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds – Many companies, such as banks, retailers, and utility providers, run community grant schemes to support local social initiatives in areas where they operate.

These programmes often favour collaborative bids and encourage organisations to work in partnership with other local stakeholders.

Typical eligibility for community grants

To apply for community grants, organisations usually need to:

Be based in the geographic area covered by the grant.
Demonstrate strong community involvement and consultation.
Deliver activities that align with funders’ thematic priorities, such as wellbeing, inclusion, environment, or youth engagement.
Show clear outputs and outcomes, such as numbers of people supported or improvements to local facilities.
Provide basic governance documents and evidence of financial responsibility.

Many grant programmes also prioritise projects working with disadvantaged or marginalised groups, aiming to reduce inequalities and strengthen community cohesion.

Strategic benefits for nonprofits

Accessing community grant programmes isn’t just about short-term funding. These programmes help organisations:

Build long-term relationships with local funders and councils.
Gain visibility and credibility within their communities.
Pilot community-led projects that can later attract regional or national funding.
Strengthen partnerships with other local charities and stakeholders.

By aligning their mission with local priorities and maintaining transparent governance, nonprofits can position themselves as trusted community anchors — making them more competitive in future grant rounds.

Funding for grassroots organisations — Opportunities for smaller nonprofits

Funding for grassroots organisations is a crucial part of the UK’s grant-making ecosystem. Grassroots groups — often volunteer-led, hyper-local, and working with limited resources — are frequently at the frontline of community change. Whether tackling food insecurity, youth unemployment, climate action, or social isolation, these organisations deliver high-impact work with deep local knowledge. Yet, they often face the greatest challenges in securing sustainable funding.

Why funders are focusing more on grassroots groups

In recent years, UK funders have increasingly recognised the value of supporting smaller, community-led organisations. Unlike large national charities, grassroots nonprofits are typically embedded within the communities they serve, giving them a unique understanding of local issues and the trust of local residents.

Funders see investing in these groups as a way to:

Reach communities that may be underserved by mainstream services.
Encourage innovation and locally tailored solutions.
Strengthen the social fabric at the neighbourhood level.
Promote inclusion, equality, and community participation.

This shift has led to the creation of dedicated grant streams for smaller charities, community interest companies (CICs), and unincorporated voluntary groups.

Examples of grassroots funding opportunities

Some of the best-known programmes supporting grassroots organisations in the UK include:

Matthew Good Foundation Grants – Offers small, unrestricted grants (usually up to £3,500) to support local initiatives and pilot projects led by small charities and community groups.
National Lottery Community Fund (Awards for All) – Provides small grants to grassroots groups for community-led projects across the UK, often with simplified application processes.
Hymans Robertson Foundation – Focuses on supporting small charities working in UK cities, with flexible grants for wellbeing, education, and inclusion projects.
Local Community Foundations – Many have special grassroots funding streams targeted at organisations with annual incomes below £100,000.
Corporate match funding and employee-led giving schemes – Increasingly used by businesses to support hyper-local groups identified by staff.

These opportunities are typically less bureaucratic, with simpler application forms and lighter reporting requirements compared to large-scale grants.

Eligibility considerations for grassroots funding

Most grassroots grant programmes are aimed at:

Charities and CICs with annual incomes below £100,000–£250,000.
Voluntary or unincorporated groups with a clear community mission and a bank account.
Organisations delivering hyper-local activities that address immediate community needs.
Groups able to demonstrate community involvement and measurable outcomes.
Initiatives that may be in early stages but show clear potential for growth or replicability.

Some funders even accept applications from groups that are not yet registered charities, provided they have a clear constitution and governance structure in place.

Strategic approach for grassroots organisations

While grassroots groups often have less capacity, they can strengthen their funding success by:

Building local partnerships to demonstrate collective impact.
Maintaining clear, transparent financial records — even if small.
Starting with micro-grants to prove impact before scaling up.
Clearly articulating their unique community role and track record.
Using successful projects as a springboard to access larger funding later.

Funders are increasingly looking for authentic, community-driven solutions, not polished bids from large organisations. A well-prepared grassroots application that tells a compelling story can often outperform larger charities for the right grant.

Applying for charity grants UK — Processes, documentation, and deadlines

Applying for charity grants UK is a structured process that requires clarity, preparation, and alignment with funders’ priorities. Whether you are a small grassroots group or a national charity, a well-prepared application can make the difference between securing crucial funding or being overlooked. Understanding what funders look for — and preparing your organisation accordingly — is key to success in 2025’s competitive funding landscape.

Key steps in the grant application process

Most UK grant applications follow a similar set of steps:

Research and identify suitable grants
Before applying, charities must ensure that their mission, activities, and geographic focus align with the funder’s priorities. Using tools like the UK Government’s Grants Finder, Turn2us, or local Community Foundation directories can help identify the best matches.
Read the guidelines carefully
Every grant programme has specific eligibility criteria, funding priorities, and timelines. Missing a detail — like a geographic restriction or a funding cap — can result in automatic disqualification.
Prepare your case for support
This includes a clear problem statement, measurable objectives, a breakdown of activities, and an explanation of expected impact. Funders want to see evidence-based needs and realistic plans for delivery.
Submit the application before deadlines
Deadlines are strict. Many funders will not accept late submissions. Creating a grants calendar helps nonprofits plan ahead and avoid last-minute rushes.
Follow up and respond to funders
Some funders may request additional information, clarification, or an interview. Timely responses and professionalism help build trust and long-term relationships.

Essential documentation for grant applications

Funders typically require applicants to provide a set of standard documents alongside their proposal. These often include:

Governing documents (e.g., constitution, memorandum & articles).
Charity registration or CIC certificate.
Most recent annual accounts or financial statements.
Bank statements to verify financial control and stability.
Policies such as safeguarding, equality & diversity, and GDPR compliance.
Project budget and organisational budget showing realistic, transparent use of funds.
Impact evidence or previous reports demonstrating your track record.

Larger funders may also ask for a Theory of Change, strategic plan, or independent evaluation reports.

Timing and grant cycles in the UK

UK grant programmes have varied timelines:

Rolling programmes accept applications year-round and assess them as they come in.
Fixed deadline programmes often have 1–3 funding rounds per year.
Seasonal funding may target specific periods such as winter hardship or summer youth programmes.
Government and large foundation grants can take 3–6 months from submission to decision.

Creating a funding timetable that maps deadlines, expected decision dates, and reporting periods helps charities manage applications efficiently and avoid overlaps.

Best practices to strengthen applications

Strong applications share some common features:

Clarity – Funders should immediately understand what your organisation does and why it matters.
Evidence – Use local statistics, testimonials, or research to back up your claims.
Realism – Budgets and timelines must be achievable, not overambitious.
Impact – Clearly state how many people will benefit and what will change.
Alignment – Tailor each application to the specific funder, rather than copy-pasting generic content.

Nonprofits that consistently secure grants often build templates for common sections, which can then be customised for each funder — saving time while maintaining quality.

Why preparation matters more in 2025

With increased competition for funding and greater scrutiny from funders, well-prepared applications stand out. UK funders are placing growing emphasis on financial transparency, safeguarding, and impact measurement. Having robust internal systems — such as clear budgets, governance policies, and impact tracking — makes your charity a more attractive funding partner.

At NGO Finance Hub, we support organisations with ngo financial management, and training through our ngo finance course. This ensures that when funding opportunities arise, your organisation can respond with strong, compliant, and compelling applications.

Eligibility criteria for nonprofit grants — Who can apply and how to qualify

Eligibility criteria for nonprofit grants are one of the most critical — and often misunderstood — aspects of securing funding. In 2025, UK funders are becoming increasingly clear and strict about who qualifies for their programmes. Understanding these criteria in detail allows not for profit organisations to target the right grants and avoid wasting time on ineligible applications.

Core eligibility requirements for UK nonprofit grants

While each grant programme is unique, there are common eligibility factors that most UK funders look for:

Legal status: Funders usually require applicants to be registered as a charity, Community Interest Company (CIC), Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), or other recognised not-for-profit entity. Unregistered community groups may still be eligible for some small grants but will often need a constituted structure and bank account.
Geographic focus: Many grants are limited to specific local authorities, regions, or UK nations (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). Funders want to see that your beneficiaries live or operate within their target areas.
Charitable purposes: Your organisation’s objectives must align with charitable purposes defined in UK law — such as relieving poverty, advancing education, promoting health, or supporting community development.
Track record or capacity: Some funders prioritise organisations with a proven record of delivering projects, while others welcome new initiatives. In both cases, demonstrating capability, governance, and financial control is key.
Alignment with funder priorities: Funders often focus on specific themes — e.g., climate action, health and wellbeing, equality and diversity, or youth development. Applications that clearly match these themes are more likely to succeed.

Small charities and grassroots groups: Special considerations

Many small charities and grassroots organisations believe that large grants are out of reach — but in reality, small grants for UK charities often have more flexible eligibility rules. Local councils, community foundations, and some national funders design grant programmes for smaller groups that may not yet be registered charities.

To qualify, grassroots groups typically need to:

Have a written constitution or governing document.
Operate on a not-for-profit basis with clear charitable aims.
Maintain a community bank account in the organisation’s name.
Demonstrate community benefit and inclusivity in their activities.

Partnering with an established charity as a “host” or fiscal sponsor is another route that allows smaller groups to access funding without formal registration.

Thematic eligibility: Wellbeing, climate action, equality and more

Beyond legal and structural requirements, many UK funders prioritise specific impact areas. For example:

Wellbeing and climate action grants focus on improving community health, promoting sustainability, or addressing environmental challenges.
Equality and diversity funding UK targets organisations supporting underrepresented groups, tackling discrimination, or promoting social inclusion.
Covid-19 recovery grants continue to support organisations addressing the long-term effects of the pandemic on vulnerable communities.

To qualify for these thematic grants, your application must provide evidence of impact in the relevant area — such as programme data, case studies, or testimonials.

Documentation and compliance standards

Eligibility also depends on your organisation’s ability to provide proper documentation. Funders often require:

Up-to-date governing documents and policies (e.g., safeguarding, GDPR, equality).
Annual accounts or financial statements that show good financial management.
Charity Commission or Companies House registration numbers, where applicable.
Proof of insurance, particularly for public liability and volunteer cover.

If your organisation lacks some of these elements, it’s wise to address gaps before applying. Funders increasingly view robust governance and financial controls as non-negotiable eligibility factors.

Why eligibility matters strategically

Applying for grants you’re not eligible for can harm your reputation with funders and waste valuable time. By focusing only on opportunities you qualify for, your success rate improves — and funders begin to recognise your organisation as a credible, well-prepared partner.

Grant application tips and best practices are essential for any UK nonprofit hoping to secure funding in 2025. With increasing competition and limited budgets, funders are focusing on clarity, alignment, and impact. Whether you’re applying for small community grants or large national programmes, the way you structure and present your application can make all the difference.

Start with a clear and compelling case for support

The foundation of any strong grant application is a well-defined problem statement. Funders want to know:

What issue your organisation is addressing
Why this issue matters to the community or beneficiaries
How your project provides a meaningful solution

Use data, community feedback, and evidence to strengthen your case. For example, citing local statistics, survey results, or research reports shows that your application is grounded in reality, not assumptions.

Align closely with funder priorities

One of the most common reasons applications fail is poor alignment with the funder’s objectives. Before applying:

Read the funder’s guidelines and strategy documents carefully.
Review previously funded projects to understand their priorities.
Use their language where appropriate to mirror their focus.

For example, if a funder prioritises wellbeing and climate action grants, ensure your application explicitly links your activities to health outcomes or environmental impact. Generic proposals are rarely successful.

Be realistic and precise with budgets

Funders expect detailed, transparent, and realistic budgets. Avoid vague line items such as “miscellaneous” or “other.” Instead, provide:

A breakdown of costs (staff, materials, venue, marketing, insurance, overheads).
A clear explanation of how each cost supports project delivery.
Evidence of value for money, showing that your organisation can deliver impact efficiently.

If your organisation is applying for small grants for UK charities, funders may appreciate seeing in-kind contributions (e.g., volunteer time, donated space) or matched funding, which demonstrates commitment and sustainability.

Demonstrate capacity and accountability

Funders need to trust that their money will be managed responsibly. Strengthen your application by including:

Details about your team’s experience and roles.
Examples of past successful projects or partnerships.
A short overview of your financial management systems, such as bookkeeping processes or ngo financial management software.

For new or grassroots organisations, highlighting community partnerships or advisory board support can help build credibility.

Focus on outcomes and impact, not just activities

Many applications focus too much on “what will be done” and not enough on “what will change.” Funders care most about outcomes. Structure this part clearly:

Outputs: Tangible deliverables (e.g., 5 workshops, 100 participants, 3 community events).
Outcomes: Changes or benefits for people and communities (e.g., improved wellbeing, increased employment, enhanced skills).
Impact: Long-term change aligned with funder priorities.

Using a simple theory of change or logic model can make this section more compelling and easier to understand.

Follow instructions and avoid common mistakes

Even the best ideas can be rejected due to technical errors. Common mistakes include:

Submitting applications after the deadline.
Exceeding word limits or formatting requirements.
Failing to attach required documents such as accounts or safeguarding policies.
Using jargon or unclear language that confuses assessors.

Always proofread applications, ideally with someone outside your organisation, to catch inconsistencies or omissions.

Build relationships with funders early

Successful applicants often engage with funders before applying. Many funders offer webinars, Q&A sessions, or allow pre-application conversations. This gives you a chance to:

Clarify eligibility or funding priorities.
Introduce your organisation and mission.
Receive feedback that can strengthen your proposal.

Building rapport increases the likelihood of success and lays the groundwork for future funding opportunities.

Why strategy matters more than volume

Rather than applying for every available grant, it’s better to target fewer, better-matched opportunities. Quality over quantity saves time and improves your success rate. Many funders keep records of past applicants; repeated low-quality submissions can harm your reputation.

Key grant providers UK for nonprofits — Where to find funding opportunities in 2025

Key grant providers UK for nonprofits play a crucial role in sustaining community services, charitable projects, and innovative initiatives across the country. Whether you run a small grassroots group or a large charitable organisation, knowing where to look for reliable funding sources can make the difference between thriving and struggling.

National Lottery Community Fund

One of the most important funding bodies in the UK, the National Lottery Community Fund distributes millions each year to community organisations, charities, and voluntary groups. They support projects that improve communities, promote wellbeing, tackle inequality, and strengthen local resilience.

Types of funding: Small grants (up to £20,000) and larger multi-year programmes.
Eligibility: UK-based non-profits including CIOs, CICs, registered charities, and constituted community groups.
Key themes: Health, education, inclusion, environment, and community development.
Why it matters: The Lottery Fund is often a first step for small charities to secure sustainable funding.

UK Government Grants and Public Sector Funding

Central and local government bodies regularly publish grant opportunities for non-profits delivering public benefit. These can range from Covid-19 recovery grants, equality and diversity programmes, to specific sectoral funds like arts, sports, or youth initiatives.

Where to find them: The official UK Government Find a Grant service is the primary source.
Advantages: Transparent application processes, national coverage, and often significant funding amounts.
Challenges: More competitive, with formal eligibility criteria and reporting standards.

Major UK Charitable Trusts and Foundations

Private philanthropic foundations are another major source of funding for grassroots organisations and national charities alike. Some of the largest include:

The Esmée Fairbairn Foundation – supporting social change, environment, and arts.
The Paul Hamlyn Foundation – known for education, migration, and social justice work.
The Garfield Weston Foundation – supporting a broad range of charitable activities across the UK.
The Tudor Trust – focusing on smaller, community-based organisations.

These funders usually publish clear guidelines and priorities on their websites. Many offer core funding, not just project grants, which is vital for organisational stability.

Community Foundations Network

The UK has over 40 Community Foundations, each managing local and regional grant programmes. Examples include Kent Community Foundation, Essex Community Foundation, and Community Foundation Tyne & Wear. They specialise in community grants programmes UK, supporting local projects that address health, education, inclusion, and community engagement.

Who can apply: Registered charities, community interest companies, voluntary groups, and occasionally individuals for community benefit projects.
Why they matter: They understand local needs deeply, and their application processes are often more accessible to small charities.

Corporate Foundations and CSR Programmes

More UK businesses are funding charitable projects through corporate foundations or CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) budgets. Well-known examples include:

Greggs Foundation – community grants supporting local UK initiatives.
Lloyds Bank Foundation – focused on charities tackling complex social issues.
Barclays Community Aid – supporting digital inclusion, employability, and financial wellbeing.

Corporate grants can be smaller in size but often come with additional benefits such as employee volunteering, marketing support, or long-term partnerships.

International and Commonwealth Grant Makers

For charities working on international development, human rights, or climate action, organisations like the Commonwealth Foundation offer substantial grants. These can support UK-based non-profits with international programmes or collaborative projects involving partners in Commonwealth countries.

Digital Grant Search Tools and Directories

While it’s important to know the major funders, it’s equally valuable to use comprehensive grant directories and search platforms to uncover new opportunities. The best UK tools include:

Charity Excellence Grants Directory – regularly updated with small and medium funding opportunities.
Turn2us – a grant search tool for both organisations and individuals.
Funding Central (NCVO) – offers advanced filters and alerts.
GrantNav by 360Giving – a free database of UK grants from multiple funders.

Regularly checking these directories helps charities stay ahead of deadlines and find lesser-known opportunities that may be less competitive.

Why a strategic funding mix matters

Relying on a single funding source is risky. The most resilient UK non-profits build a diverse funding strategy, combining lottery funds, trusts and foundations, government grants, corporate support, and community fundraising. This reduces vulnerability to policy changes and ensures long-term financial sustainability.

Grants for not for profit organisations UK

Securing grants for not for profit organisations UK is more than just filling out applications — it’s about understanding the funding landscape, aligning your mission with funder priorities, and building strong financial systems to support sustainable growth. In 2025, with an evolving grant environment shaped by social needs, climate action, and economic recovery, UK nonprofits that plan strategically will stand out from the competition.

Successful organisations combine a clear funding strategy, accurate financial reporting, and compelling narratives about their impact. They stay informed about small grants for UK charities, use community grants programmes effectively, explore wellbeing and climate action opportunities, and build strong relationships with key grant providers. By diversifying income sources and applying for the right grants at the right time, they create financial stability that allows them to focus on delivering lasting impact.

At NGO Finance Hub, we specialise in helping UK charities, CICs, and grassroots groups navigate grant applications, build sustainable financial systems, and strengthen governance. Through our ngo financial management services, practical ngo finance courses, and strategic support for financial management for NGOs, we enable organisations to meet eligibility criteria, submit strong applications, and manage grant funding responsibly.

Whether you’re applying for your first community grant or scaling your charity’s funding strategy to national level, expert guidance can make all the difference.

Get in touch with NGO Finance Hub today to strengthen your funding strategy and secure the resources your organisation needs to thrive in 2025 and beyond.