Open Call for Community Grants Scheme (United Kingdom)

The University of Edinburgh’s Community Grants Scheme provides community-focused funding of up to £5,000 for projects that support people living in Edinburgh and surrounding regions. The scheme aims to contribute to specific United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen relationships between the University and local organisations. Applications are open and close on 26 October 2026 at 10:00am. The Community Grants Scheme aims to support work with positive social impact for people living in the following areas: Projects should contribute to one or more of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A second key objective is to develop positive relationships between the University and the community organisation delivering the project. Cost coverage details, funder expectations for budgets, and what expenditure types are eligible are not specified in the source. Applicants should consult the scheme’s full guidance and related documents via the official page. Based on the information provided, the following requirements are clear: Applicant type and specific organisation eligibility criteria are not specified in the provided source text. The page advises applicants to read the scheme’s Frequently Asked Questions for eligibility and other helpful information. Eligible projects should contribute to at least one of the following SDGs: In addition, projects should help build positive relationships between the University and the community organisation. This opportunity is designed for community organisations seeking modest funding (up to £5,000) to deliver activities with social value in Edinburgh and neighbouring regions. By tying projects to relevant SDGs and emphasising University–community relationship-building, the scheme is likely intended for initiatives that can demonstrate both local impact and constructive collaboration. For accessibility needs or help completing the form:

https: //local.ed.ac.uk/community-grants/how-to-apply

What is the maximum amount I can apply for under the Community Grants Scheme? You can apply for up to £5,000 per project. The scheme also welcomes applications for less. When is the Community Grants Scheme deadline? Applications close on 26 October 2026 at 10:00am. (Time zone not specified in the source.) Which locations are eligible for project delivery? Projects need to be in Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothians, and/or the Scottish Borders (listed as City of Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, West Lothian, Scottish Borders and/or Fife). Can I apply more than once for the same project? No. The scheme states one grant per project. Does the scheme fund projects that have already finished? No. The source states it does not fund projects that have already been completed. What SDGs can my project support? Projects should contribute to one or more of: 1 No Poverty; 3 Good Health and Wellbeing; 4 Quality Education; 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth; 10 Reduced Inequalities; 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities. Is there an alternative smaller funding option? Yes. The page mentions a micro-grant scheme for smaller projects with funding of up to £500, and it is described as open all year round. Details for that programme are separate from the Community Grants Scheme. If you meet the basic requirements—especially the project geography, non-completed status, and the £5,000 maximum request—review the scheme’s Frequently Asked Questions and follow the application instructions via the official Community Grants: How to apply page before the 26 October 2026 at 10:00am deadline. For more information, visit University of Edinburgh.