New Community Investment Fund Introduced

Bromsgrove District Council is calling on local organisations to bid for a share of more than £1 million to deliver lasting improvements in their communities.

A new Community Investment Fund (CIF) has been unveiled and is being made available to fund projects across the district in order to revitalise neighbourhoods, empower local communities and improve residents’ quality of life.

Applications are invited from any formally constituted organisation such as Parish Councils, Community Interest Companies, registered charities and community groups and associations.

Leader of Bromsgrove District Council, Cllr Karen May, said: “The Community Investment Fund being introduced is fantastic news for organisations and residents districtwide.

“The CIF puts significant investment directly into our communities, helping to improve neighbourhoods, enhance public spaces and support projects that bring people together. We want to see ambitious ideas that will make a real difference.”

It is a competitive application process with the first round of applications opening on 1^st May 2026 and closing on 7^th June 2026. Projects need to be completed by 31^st March 2028 as this is the end date for the fund. Future rounds will be published on our website.

The first type of grant available is a Capital Grant, ranging from £5,000 - £30,000, for projects that deliver neighbourhood scale improvements. Larger grants, up to £200,000, may be available for projects that deliver significant impact and benefits to residents.  

The funding must be used for the creation of new, or improvements to, existing public buildings or green/blue spaces. Any improvements must be designed to create a better public space and increase usage.

Eligible projects include the creation of new, or improvements to, public buildings including community centres, village halls, community libraries and public toilets.  Green and blue space improvements include parks, public gardens, playing fields, children’s play areas, woods, cemeteries and allotments.

Public realm improvements are eligible including street furniture and wayfinding. As well as for the creation of, or improvements to existing arts, cultural, heritage and sporting facilities.

Community events and activity grants are also available from £2,000 - £10,000 for events/activities that enhance the vibrancy of the district which increase footfall or deliver community services/activities that benefit local people.

Cllr May added: “I would strongly encourage eligible organisations to come forward with their ideas and apply. This is a competitive fund, but it offers a real opportunity to secure investment that can deliver lasting benefits for local residents.”

Eligible organisations can apply for grant funding by completing the Community Investment Fund application form, available on our website or by emailing economicdevelopment@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.

Completed forms are to be emailed back to the same email address once completed by 7th June 2026.