Applying for a Local Funding Grant

Each group can apply for between £50 and £1400 for a community event, activity or project per financial year.

Although applicants may apply for a specific amount, there is no guarantee that the requested amount will be granted. 

Who can apply:

  • voluntary and community groups, including local charities
  • we cannot fund individuals

Groups must have:

  • a bank account in the name of that group, or provide details of an organisation prepared to act on your behalf to manage any money awarded
  • governing document to demonstrate they are a community group (this could be a constitution, a memorandum and articles of association)

What Local Funding Covers

Community events, activities  or projects

  • projects which benefit local Sutton residents within a Local Committee area
  • projects where there is an identified local need or gap  
  • insurance for events (including public liability insurance) 
  • costs for guest speakers under £250
  • projects must be within the Borough. Projects by national charities are not eligible
  • events must take place within 12 months of receiving funding 
  • a maximum of 20% of awarded grants can be put towards food/drink costs 
  • community events that are free for residents to attend are encouraged

Examples of things that can be funded

  • one-off startup costs to create a wellbeing group
  • one-off events such as community fun day materials,prizes etc  
  • publicity or merchandise to advertise a project, group or event 

What is NOT covered by Local Funding

The community events, activities and projects funding programme does not cover:

  • activities where a statutory agency would normally cover the cost
  • Local Authority initiatives
  • school projects and events
  • salary and running costs (building costs, ongoing IT costs, electricity, gas etc)
  • volunteer expenses 
  • loans or interest payments
  • legal expenses
  • training costs (e.g. first aid courses)
  • temporary event notices 
  • paying for guest speakers at an event over £250 
  • projects that promote private interests
  • projects or events  that are run for profit or are run by private companies
  • projects promoting religion
  • projects associated with political parties, lobbying or campaigning