Civic Future Action Grants
Civic Future Actions Grants is our programme offering small grants between £500 and £5,000 to help start new things. The application deadline is September 1, 2026.
Our new grants programme
Civic Future Action Grants is our new programme for people who want to start new things. Applications are open. Applications close on September 1, 2026.
The programme aims to put resources in the hands of doers. If someone sent you this link, and you have an idea that tackles an important civic or policy challenge, apply here for a chance to unlock £500 – £5,000. We might fund pressing and urgent campaigns, policy salons, unconferences, essay prizes, or regional podcasts on growth; anything that benefits the public and has the potential to significantly shape the national policy conversation.
Shortlisted candidates join a brief virtual interview with decisions made within eight weeks.
If selected, you’ll set clear milestones and check-in dates.
So, if you think you have an idea to move Britain forward, apply.
Find out more
How can I apply for a grant?
You can apply via our short online form.
What are some of the projects you’ve supported in the past?
We’ve supported a wide range of projects, including open-source software for MPs’ offices, campaigns on the driving test backlog and poor mobile signal, work on local disorder, and a documentary on the long closure of Hammersmith Bridge. We’ve also backed groups bringing people together to think seriously about infrastructure, engineering, culture, public service, and the future of London. If your project helps Britain understand or solve an important public or civic problem, it likely fits our criteria. Note, though, that the lower your grant request the more likely it is to be accepted and larger grants may arrive in two stages, each tied to milestones you set.
How does the application process work?
We’ll invite the strongest applicants to a 30-minute video call and make a decision within eight weeks.
What are the conditions to be met for a grant?
Before we send you the funds you’ll need to sign a brief agreement. It’s important that all grantees stick to the budget, hit the milestones we jointly set, and send regular updates to the Civic Future team. Once the project is finished, you’ll send a two-page outcomes report.
Can I apply as part of a team?
Yes. Submit one application that lists every core contributor.
Do I need to be connected to Civic Future already?
Yes, you need to have been sent a link to this page by Civic Future or be connected to someone who has.
Can I apply for a grant to help support an already-existing project?
Possibly, and in the right circumstances, but in general our grants are for those starting something new.