If you are running a community sports project, you already know how tough funding can be. The good news is there are many grants that want to support physical activity, community wellbeing and helping more people get active.
Here are 20 funders currently offering support for sports projects:
(You can find 100s more grants like this in our free grant database – sign up here)
1. Sport England Movement Fund
Supports projects that help people become more active, especially people who currently face barriers to taking part. Great for community sessions, new programmes, festivals and equipment.
Link: https://www.sportengland.org/funding-and-campaigns/our-funding/movement-fund
2. BlueSpark Foundation
Provides small grants for projects that help children and young people grow, learn and build confidence. Sports clubs and activity programmes fit well.
Link: https://bluesparkfoundation.org.uk/
3. The Hedley Foundation
Supports projects that improve life for young people, people with disabilities and people facing disadvantage. Sports activities that build confidence or wellbeing often match well.
Link: https://hedleyfoundation.org.uk/
4. Morrisons Foundation
Funds charity projects that improve lives in local communities. Sports projects, wellbeing activities and small facility improvements all qualify.
Link: https://www.morrisonsfoundation.com/
5. Charles Hayward Foundation Older People Programme
Supports projects that help people over 60 stay active, connected and mentally well, including walking groups, gentle exercise or social activities.
Link: https://charleshaywardfoundation.org.uk/grants/older-people/
6. Chapman Charitable Trust
Funds projects that improve people’s physical or mental wellbeing. Sports sessions that help people feel healthier or more confident fit well.
Link: https://www.chapmancharitabletrust.org.uk/
7. IM Properties Community Fund
Supports community projects near IM Properties developments. They are interested in inclusion, community belonging and wellbeing, so local sports activities are a good fit.
Link: https://www.heartofenglandcf.co.uk/im-properties-community-fund/
8. CLA Charitable Trust
Helps people, especially those facing disadvantage, access outdoor and recreational opportunities. Outdoor sports and active recreation projects often match their interests.
Link: https://www.cla.org.uk/cla-charitable-trust/
9. HS2 Community and Environment Fund CEF
Supports communities affected by HS2 construction. They fund projects that improve quality of life including sports facilities and health focused programmes.
Link: https://hs2funds.org.uk/home/community-environment-fund/
10. Central Social and Recreational Trust
Supports sports clubs that work with people under 21. They help with equipment and small upgrades that improve access to sport.
Link: https://www.csrt.info/how-to-apply/
11. Persimmon Community Champions
Provides monthly grants for local charities and clubs. They regularly support grassroots sport and community activity.
Link: https://www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions
12. Barchester Charitable Foundation
Supports older people and adults with disabilities to stay active and connected. Sports and wellbeing activities aimed at these groups align well.
Link: https://www.bhcfoundation.org.uk/
13. Wooden Spoon Society Grant
Funds capital projects that support children and young people who are disadvantaged or who have disabilities. This can include sports areas, playgrounds and outdoor activity spaces.
Link: https://woodenspoon.org.uk/apply-for-a-grant/
14. Arnold Clark Community Fund
Supports local charities and community groups within 50 miles of an Arnold Clark branch. Sports groups and community clubs are often funded.
Link: https://www.arnoldclark.com/community-fund
15. National Lottery Awards for All
Simple funding for projects that bring people together or improve local spaces. Community sports sessions, walking groups and activity programmes are all eligible.
Link: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/funding-programmes/national-lottery-awards-for-all-england
16. Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust
Primarily supports community groups in Glasgow and surrounding areas. They fund sport, health, education and cultural projects that strengthen communities.
Link: https://alliedvehiclesgroup.com/allied-vehicles-charitable-trust/
17. Cash4Clubs
Provides small, simple grants for grassroots sports clubs to help with kit, coaching, costs or keeping sessions running.
Link: https://cash-4-clubs.com/
18. The Alpkit Foundation
Loves projects that help people get outdoors. Walking, climbing, paddling, adventure sport and nature based wellbeing activities all fit well.
Link: https://alpkit.com/pages/foundation
19. National Lottery Reaching Communities
Large grants for projects tackling community challenges. Sports projects that improve wellbeing, reduce isolation or strengthen communities are often funded.
Link: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/funding-programmes/reaching-communities-england
20. Boost Charitable Trust
Supports sports projects that help people who are disadvantaged or who have disabilities take part, feel confident and achieve their potential.
Link: https://www.boostct.org/
