Knowsley’s Cabinet has approved the launch of the Knowsley Community Fund 2026/27, aimed at supporting and empowering local community and voluntary organisations across the borough.
An investment of £730,000 will be made available through the annual community grant programme, injecting funds into Knowsley’s voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector.
Knowsley Council Leader, Cllr Graham Morgan said:
“We are delighted to launch this year’s Knowsley Community Fund, a vital initiative that reinforces our commitment to building strong, resilient communities.
“The Knowsley Community Fund is a crucial resource for our invaluable community and voluntary groups to access the resources they need to make a real difference in the lives of Knowsley residents.”
Since 2022, the Council has invested £1.8 million via a community grant programme into Knowsley’s voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise sector, enabling a diverse range of interventions and activities. The Knowsley Community Fund 2026/27 will provide continued crucial support during the ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
Community organisations may choose to request funding to deliver one or several projects that contribute to the Council’s key priorities, including:
- Delivering effective, high-quality services and support that positively impact residents’ lives.
- Encouraging growth that benefits everyone, ensuring communities and town centres can flourish.
- Delivering targeted support to encourage fairness and opportunity for those facing the biggest challenges.
In addition, for the 2026/2027 funding period only, the Knowsley Community Fund will also fund small capital projects that support Community Spaces with a particular focus on improving sports facilities and securing equipment for sport and physical activity.
Who can apply?
Registered charities, constituted voluntary, community and faith organisations, not-for-profit, community interest companies, companies limited by guarantee, community benefit societies, charitable incorporated organisations, and community amateur sports clubs and sports clubs affiliated to a national governing body for sport who have been operating for at least 12 months and have a good track record of delivery may apply.
The Council is also keen to support newly established organisations which can demonstrate that they have strong governance structures in place.
How much can groups apply for?
One grant up to £2,000 for groups operating for less than twelve months or new project ideas which require a small allocation of “seed” funding to allow ideas to be tested.
One grant up to £5,000 for groups helping residents stay warm, safe and well over a five-month period during winter, specifically throughout the months November to March only.
One grant up to £20,000 for established organisations wishing to sustain activity by expanding and or extending current activities and activities that support physical activity, sporting facilities and sporting equipment
Any project exceeding £10,000 must demonstrate that it includes a minimum of 50% capital spend.
What kind of projects will be supported?
- Projects that fund new or enhanced activities (between November and March) that support the health and wellbeing of residents who are at high risk during the wintertime.
- Projects that support organisations working to improve the lives of disabled children and their families in Knowsley that forms part of the wider range of services available to parents and carers of children with disabilities and special needs called the ‘Local Offer’.
- Projects that provide a range of positive and engaging activities that meet the needs and wishes of children and young people across Knowsley.
- Projects that support grassroots organisations in delivering creative physical activity projects, helping to build capacity and encourage healthier lifestyles across Knowsley.
- Projects that directly support the Council’s Prevention and Early Intervention agenda.
- Projects that directly support residents to thrive and support people to overcome inequality and strengthens community cohesion.
How can groups apply?
The online application portal for the Knowsley Community Fund is anticipated to launch on 12 June, with a closing date for applications on 10 July, at 5pm.
Please visit Knowsley Council’s website –www.knowsley.gov.uk/OnlineFundingPortal- and complete an online application form.
Funding will be released from November 2026 onwards subject to the Cabinet’s approval and agreement. Some allocations around Winter Wellness may be made in late September/ October 2026 to allow full impact for the winter period.
Support will be available for community groups to access the portal through the Council’s libraries and dedicated online support sessions.