Introduction
There are various funding sources available to community groups and charities in Somerset. We have provided links to databases where you can search for funding, as well as examples of different sources of funding across Somerset.
If you know of other funding sources, we would be happy to consider adding them to this list.
Contact the team
Find funding
GRIN (Grants Resource Information News) – An affordable local funding directory with a searchable grants and resource database, and daily funding bulletins.
Spark Fundraising Network – This Facebook group is for people who are involved with raising funds for groups and organisations. The group is a professional networking tool, allowing you to share experiences and best practice, take part in discussions, and have access to training and information that make your roles a little bit easier.
Somerset Community Foundation - work to increase the impact of local philanthropy in our local communities. Their website gives you more information about the funding programmes they manage.
Spark Somerset – Can help with finding the latest funding information for Somerset’s Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector.
Charity Excellence – has free resources and a funding finder.
Somerset Council funding
Somerset Prepared Small Grants Fund
Funding for local communities developing emergency arrangements. Previous grants have helped to provide training and issue equipment, such as storage huts and protective clothing. Find out more on the Somerset Prepared website.
Grant Funding for activities for children and young people with a disability or additional need
The Community Inclusion and Activity Team have a grant fund for providers of activities and clubs for disabled children and young people and their families. These may be regular clubs or activities that take place in the school holidays.
Grant funding dates happen periodically throughout the year. For more information on the grant fund email CIAteam@somerset.gov.uk
The Children and Youth Initiative Fund
The Children and Youth Initiative Fund supports projects that improve the lives of people aged 0 to 25 years old living in the Somerset West and Taunton area.
Funding opportunities regularly change. You may find information about additional Somerset Council funding in Somerset Council Newsroom.
Other funding sources
There are also many other funds available through government departments, national charities, trusts and businesses, which can provide community funding.
Town and Parish Councils
Some Town and Parish Councils also offer grant programmes. You can find details of all Town and Parish councils in Somerset at Parish council contact details (democracy.somerset.gov.uk) page.
Taunton Town Council
Provide grants to communities in Taunton throughout the year. More information can be found at Grants and Sponsorships (taunton-tc.gov.uk) page.
Armed Forces Covenant Fund
Armed Forces Covenant Fund is a new government fund to support community covenants, and to fund local projects that bring together the civilian and armed forces communities. There is more information at Somerset Armed Forces Community Covenant or on the GOV.UK website.
The Somerset Fund
Unrestricted grants up to £1,500 for grassroots community groups across Somerset. The funding window is now closed, but local businesses are encouraged to explore supporting the fund as an easier way to donate locally and have a greater impact. Find out more information on the Somerset Fund website.
The Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) Community Flood Action Fund
The Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) Community Flood Action Fund offers small grants for works to reduce flooding in Somerset. Up to £200,000 is available in 2025, split up into grants of between £3,000 and £20,000. The Fund is aimed at not-for-profit organisations.
The first deadline for applications is 25 February 2025. Find out more information on the Somerset Rivers Authority website.
Evidence for bid writing
The Somerset Intelligence website provides data, information, intelligence and insight on Somerset and its varied communities, which you may find of interest when compiling evidence for bids.
This information also serves as the evidence base for the Somerset Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA). The assessment informs decision-making by people who plan, operate, and commission services for Somerset.