Dorset Council issues final call for community grants
Do you need some capital funding for a community project? The latest round of Dorset Council’s Capital Leverage Fund (Round 6) is closing soon – so now is the time to apply.
This fund supports projects that create new or improved facilities for communities across Dorset. Grants can help with a wide range of initiatives, including:
Enhancing or renovating village halls and community buildings
New builds such as car parks, play areas, and multi-use games areas
Upgrades to theatres, sports clubs, pitches, and landscaping
Community organisations operating on a ‘not-for-profit’ basis can apply for capital grants between £1,000 and £25,000, covering up to 20% of total project costs. Applicants must secure the remaining 80% before funding is released.
In the previous round, six grants totalling £88,500 helped local groups adapt and improve their facilities, making a real difference to community life.
We also welcome applications for projects that support climate change initiatives, arts, culture, heritage, accredited museums, and sports development.
Cllr Ryan Hope, portfolio holder for customer, culture and community engagement at Dorset Council, said: “We are committed to supporting active, healthy lives and reducing inequality in Dorset.
“We hope to see many applications for these grants as we know that the funding can give local communities a financial boost to improve and expand their facilities that are important to local people.”
Projects need to meet at least one of the Dorset Council priorities and at least one of the Cultural Strategy priorities if you are applying as a cultural organisation.
Applications are open until midnight on 15th January 2026 and can only be accepted via the online application form.
The final assessment dates for this current year when awards will be considered is Thursday 27th January 2026.
Applicants can find out more about eligibility, funding criteria and how to apply on the website.
To speak to someone regarding your application, contact a member of the team by emailing us at communities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for Community Projects, or, for Cultural themed projects leisure@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
