A new government fund opens this month (October 2025) to help voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations to bring people together from different backgrounds and build social connections. The Common Ground Award will provide capital grants up to £10,000 to invest in physical spaces, facilities and equipment.
The award aims to support organisations that are successful in helping people to connect with each other. In addition to the investment, it will also build a community of practice for sharing knowledge about what works well in encouraging social cohesion.
Applications will be accepted from registered charities, CIOs, charitable companies limited by guarantee, CICs and CBSs. Unincorporated groups and organisations can also apply, provided that they meet additional requirements set out in the Common Ground Award prospectus. Local authorities and other public-sector organisations are not eligible to apply.
Focus of fund/fund aims:
Direct investment for voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations that are having a positive impact in promoting social cohesion
Application deadline:
21 November 2025