The second Bristol Impact Fund is now open for applications from voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations working to reduce inequalities in the city and helping the most disadvantaged residents. 

This funding, from Bristol City Council, is designed ‘to build city resilience by growing the power of communities experiencing the greatest inequality’. It will go to VCSE organisations that support and empower equalities groups, neighbourhoods, communities and people, including those in the most 20% deprived areas of the city. 

The Whirlwind Trust has small grants available to organisations that support young, disadvantaged or disabled people (aged up to 25) through maritime and outdoor activities. Funding is designed to help these organisations provide life-changing experiences for young people, helping them build confidence and learn new skills, whatever their financial circumstances or physical abilities. 

Grants of up to £1,000 are available to small organisations in Bristol that address local issues and support equalities groups. The funding, from Bristol Redistro, is open to non-profit community organisations and unconstituted groups with an annual income of less than £25,000, based in Bristol and helping residents in the city.

The Bristol City Council Originators Fund is now open for applications to support events, arts and cultural activities taking place from June 2021 to May 2022.

Changes have been made since the fund was last open, with improved accessibility, a new application form and guidance, after consultation with a range of local creative groups and individuals. Bristol City Council is particularly keen to hear from groups and individuals who haven't applied before, and it wants to make sure the funding is spread across different areas of the city.

Blog written by Mark Hubbard, Development Director at Voscur

It’s great news that the Bristol Impact Fund will continue, especially after the recent challenges for people, communities and organisations due to coronavirus. 

A new £1 million digital development fund, from Comic Relief and the Paul Hamlyn Foundation, is offering grants of up to £70,000 to UK non-profits with an annual income of £70,000 - £1 million, or those working in partnership. This is part of the Tech For Good programme.

Funding will go to organisations that can develop, define or repurpose digital tools, platforms and products that meet social challenges. Successful applicants will also get technical support from the Centre for the Acceleration of Social Technology (CAST).

The government has said it will legislate to divert £800m in unclaimed financial assets to good causes as part of its coronavirus recovery plan. Although there are as yet no time frames included with this news, the potential for additional funding will be good news to many organisations that have struggled over the past year.

Small grants of up to £5,000 are available to charities and not-for-profit organisations with projects related to repairing, maintaining, improving or building homes and community buildings.

The money is offered by The Screwfix Foundation, established in 2013, and applications are reviewed every quarter (February, May, August and November).

Examples of eligible projects, including some previously awarded funding: