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Essex Community Initiatives Fund 2023-24

The £350,000 fund is administered on our behalf by Essex Association of Local Councils and supports voluntary organisations, community groups and Town and Parish Councils with projects which strengthen communities and make Essex a great place to live and work.

There are two levels of grant:

  • grants up to £10,000 towards capital or revenue projects that benefit the wider community
  • micro grants up to £1,000 to help grassroots groups reduce social isolation, improve wellbeing or help communities connect

Projects should have community backing and show that they help meet a real community need. They could be to:

  • create, buy or develop new community assets
  • enhance existing community assets
  • enhance or develop initiatives that strengthen a community, including cultural initiatives

This year £300,000 is allocated to the main CIF round with grants of up to £10,000 available to support projects that demonstrate a real community need.

These projects may be new amenities, equipment, new local services or cultural initiatives, all of which contribute towards strengthening communities. Grants can be used to support one-off projects and events, and ongoing activities

The deadline for full applications to the main CIF round this year is 18 August 2023.

Groups can apply to the fund by visiting this page.

The fund also operates a £50,000 Micro Grant Community Chest Fund with grants of up to £1,000 available to help grassroots groups reduce social isolation, improve wellbeing or help communities connect. This year the micro grants have also been extended to support organisations to build and develop their capabilities and skills.

Applications to the micro grants fund can be made on a rolling basis until all funds are used.

Groups can apply to the Micro Grant Community Chest Fund by visiting this page.

Applications are invited from town and parish councils, community groups, registered charities, social enterprises, community interest companies or individuals in the Essex County Council area.