The Knowsley Community Fund 2026–2027 is now open for applications, providing vital funding to support and strengthen local community and voluntary organisations across the borough.
For the 2026-2027 funding period, a total of £730,000 is available through the Council’s annual community grant programme to support Knowsley’s voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector.
Knowsley Council Leader, Cllr Graham Morgan said:
“We’re delighted to be investing £730,000 into the grassroots organisations that support our communities.
“The Knowsley Community Fund is a crucial resource for our invaluable voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise groups to access the resources they need to make a real difference in the lives of Knowsley residents.”
Registered charities, constituted voluntary, community and faith organisations, not-for-profit, community interest companies, companies limited by guarantee, community benefit societies, charitable incorporated organisations, and community amateur sports clubs and sports clubs affiliated to a national governing body for sport who have been operating for at least 12 months and have a good track record of delivery, may apply.
The Council is also keen to support newly established organisations which can demonstrate that they have strong governance structures in place.
Community organisations may choose to request funding to deliver one or several projects.
One grant of up to £2,000 for groups operating for less than twelve months or new project ideas which require a small allocation of “seed” funding to allow ideas to be tested.
One grant of up to £5,000 for groups helping residents stay warm, safe and well over five months during winter, specifically throughout the months of November to March only.
One grant of up to £20,000 for established organisations wishing to sustain activity by expanding and or extending current activities and activities that support physical activity, sporting facilities and sporting equipment.
In addition, for the 2026/2027 funding period only, the Knowsley Community Fund will also fund small capital projects that support community spaces with a particular focus on improving sports facilities and securing equipment for sport and physical activity.
Any project exceeding £10,000 must demonstrate that it includes a minimum of 50% capital spend.
Targeted Project Criteria for Health, Youth, and Disability Support
Projects that fund new or enhanced activities (between November and March) that support the health and well-being of residents who are at high risk during the wintertime.
Projects that support organisations working to improve the lives of disabled children and their families in Knowsley, which forms part of the wider range of services available to parents and carers of children with disabilities and special needs, called the ‘Local Offer’.
Projects that provide a range of positive and engaging activities that meet the needs and wishes of children and young people across Knowsley.
Projects that support grassroots organisations in delivering creative physical activity projects, helping to build capacity and encourage healthier lifestyles across Knowsley.
Projects that directly support the Council’s Prevention and Early Intervention agenda.
Projects that directly support residents to thrive and support people to overcome inequality and strengthen community cohesion.
Deadlines, Online Portal Access, and Phased Funding Release Dates
Applications for the Knowsley Community Fund can be submitted through the council’s website.
The closing date for applications is 10 July 2026, at 5 pm.
Funding will be released from November 2026 onwards, subject to the Cabinet’s approval and agreement.
Some allocations around Winter Wellness may be made in late September/ October 2026 to allow full impact for the winter period.
Support will be available for community groups to access the portal upon request.
