11
Jun
Grants of up to £5,000 available for community initiatives in Harrogate
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Grants of up to £5,000 are to be made available to local charities, community groups and voluntary organisations through a new programme launched by Harrogate Town Council.
The Small Grants Scheme forms part of the town council’s commitment to supporting community-led projects and initiatives that "strengthen neighbourhoods, improve facilities and enhance wellbeing" across Harrogate.
A total of £74,045 comes from two sources. Just over two thirds – £50,000 – is from contributions made by developers through the Community Infrastructure Levy, which is associated with new housing developments.
The remaining £24,045 comes from the town council’s general grants fund.
The Mayor of Harrogate, Councillor Viv Poskitt, said:
Community organisations are at the heart of what makes Harrogate such a special place to live. They provide support, opportunities and services that improve people’s lives and help bring communities together.
Through this grants programme, Harrogate Town Council is investing more than £74,000 in local projects that will deliver real benefits for residents. We are particularly pleased that a significant proportion of the funding is being made available through developer contributions, ensuring that investment linked to new development can be directed back into our communities.
We encourage eligible organisations to come forward with ambitious ideas and apply for funding that will help make a positive difference across Harrogate.
Two funding opportunities
Individual grants will normally be awarded up to a maximum of £5,000, although the council may consider larger awards in exceptional circumstances.
The General Grants Fund has £24,045 to support community projects, activities, services, events and initiatives that benefit Harrogate residents.
The Infrastructure and Capital Grants Fund has £50,000 to support infrastructure, capital and community facility projects. Applicants must demonstrate how their project helps Harrogate respond to development, population growth or increased demand on local services and facilities.
Who can apply?
Applications are welcomed from properly constituted local community groups, voluntary organisations, charities and other not-for-profit bodies operating for community benefit.
Projects should normally be based within the Harrogate Town Council boundary, although organisations located outside the area may be considered where funding is clearly directed towards a Harrogate-based project or activity.
How the grants scheme works
Applications for the 2026/27 Small Grants Scheme are now open and must be submitted by September 15, 2026. Eligible applications will then be assessed by members of the town council’s finance and general purposes committee at its meeting on November 11, 2026.
Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application by November 30, 2026. Successful organisations will normally be expected to spend their grant funding within two years of receiving an award.
Full guidance and application documents are available from Harrogate Town Council.
Organisations needing advice before submitting an application are encouraged to contact the council by emailing grants@harrogatetowncouncil.gov.uk or calling 01423 642542.
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