The programme offers grants of £300 to £20,000 to support community-led projects that: 

• Bring people together and build strong relationships 

• Improve places and spaces that matter to communities 

• Help people reach their potential at the earliest possible stage 

• Support those facing challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis  

Applications are accepted year-round, but you should apply at least 12 weeks before you plan to start your project. 

Some examples of environmentally conscious choices include: 

• Materials: If upgrading outdoor spaces, avoid tarmac or concrete. Use permeable surfaces that allow rainwater to filter naturally. 

• Energy Efficiency: If installing heating systems, consider improving insulation first. This could allow for smaller, more cost-effective solutions like infrared panels. 

• Waste Reduction: Use recycled or upcycled materials where possible. Plan for minimal packaging and single-use items. 

• Transport: Encourage walking, cycling or carpooling to events. Consider virtual meetings to reduce travel. 

• Nature Access: Projects that improve access to green spaces or promote biodiversity are highly encouraged. 

Over the years, National Lottery Awards for All, has supported a wide range of community led environmental initiatives. Some examples of these include:  

Urban Greening Initiatives 

• Local groups have used funding to transform neglected urban spaces into community gardens, wildflower meadows, and green corridors. These projects not only improve biodiversity but also offer residents a peaceful place to connect with nature. 

Nature Connection Activities 

• Organisations have run nature walks, wildlife workshops, and eco-education sessions for local people. These help people understand local ecosystems and encourage stewardship of natural spaces. 

Sustainable Food Projects 

• Community allotments and food-growing schemes have been supported, promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing food miles. Some projects also include composting and rainwater harvesting systems. 

Environmental Clean-Up Campaigns 

• Funding has enabled groups to organise litter-picking events, river clean-ups, and beach conservation days, often involving volunteers of all ages and raising awareness of pollution issues. 

Climate Action Workshops 

• Some projects focus on carbon literacy, helping communities understand climate change and take practical steps like energy-saving, recycling, and sustainable transport. 

Tree Planting and Rewilding 

• Grants have also supported tree planting in green spaces at community spaces, as well as rewilding efforts to restore native habitats and attract wildlife. 

1. Involve Your Community 

Show how your project was shaped by local voices. Include examples like surveys, focus groups, open days or steering groups. You are also welcome to sign up to join an upcoming lunchtime briefing session to get some inspiration. 

2. Be Clear About Your Impact 

Explain how your project will benefit people—and the planet. Include details when completing your application to highlight your green goals. If your project primarily aims to reduce negative environmental impact or increase positive environmental impact, remember to tick that you plan to meet our environment mission when you are completing your application. 

3. Budget Wisely 

Group your costs into categories (e.g. “eco-friendly materials”, “energy-efficient equipment”) and explain how you arrived at each figure. 

4. Provide the Right Documents 

You’ll need: 

• Your organisation’s legal name, address, and financial information 

• A recent bank statement (in your organisations legal name) 

• Contact details for two unrelated UK-based individuals