Community groups across England are now able to apply for the next wave of the Common Ground Award, a funding initiative designed to help bring people together and strengthen local relationships. The scheme, which first launched in 2025, is making up to £2.5 million available for projects that create welcoming local spaces and improve community life.
Applications for the grants opened on 14 September 2026 and will close on 12 October 2026. Individual organisations can apply for between £20,000 and £50,000, with grants of up to £250,000 available for groups of organisations working collaboratively. The funding is specifically for capital costs, such as the construction or renovation of facilities and the purchase of equipment.
Minister for Communities, Florence Eshamlomi, stated that the funding has already strengthened connections across England, citing examples from community cafés to sports clubs. Eric Noi, founder of Oldham Boxing & Personal Development Centre, a previous recipient, noted the award enabled them to make sport and physical activity more inclusive.
Successful applicants are expected to be notified in December 2026, with payments likely to be made in January 2027. The grant is open to voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations based and operating in England with charitable, benevolent, or philanthropic purposes.