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
Email communities@somerset.gov.uk
Stronger Communities
Public Health (Post point 2 B3S)
Somerset County Council
County Hall
Taunton
TA1 4DY
Find funding
Funding Portal – Spark Somerset have a free funding portal where you will find the latest local, regional and national funding information for Somerset’s Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector.
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. Their website gives you more information about funds and initiatives they are involved in.
Somerset County Council funding
Dementia Community Grants Programme
Grants to support the development of services and activities for people with memory loss or dementia in Somerset funding information is available here
Somerset Social Enterprise Fund
Loans are now available to support and develop social enterprises in Somerset. Applications for loan funding will be considered, from £10,000 (minimum) to £100,000 (maximum). The fund has been established by Somerset County Council working in conjunction with Somerset Community Foundation who will co-ordinate the fund. For more information visit the Somerset Community Foundation website.
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.
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
Somerset District Councils
You can see details of any Somerset District Councils’ grants for community projects here:
Mendip Local Legacy and Community Environment Fund
Other funding sources
There are also many other funds available through government departments, national charities, trusts and businesses which can provide community funding.
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. More information
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) which informs decision-making by people who plan, operate and commission services for the county.