Grants are available through the Rowntree Free the Fund Community Grant to support summer activities for adults aged 21 to 65 in local communities across the UK and Ireland.

Four awards of up to £10,000 each are being offered to organisations delivering projects that improve outdoor spaces or create opportunities for community participation. The funding is intended to enhance local environments and support activities that contribute to wellbeing and social connection.

Projects must focus on outdoor activity spaces or initiatives that benefit local people within the specified age group. Eligible uses include transforming community gardens, improving shared outdoor areas or purchasing equipment for arts, theatre, music and sport.

Activities supported may cover arts and crafts, dance, music, gardening, sports and fitness. Example projects include running a summer art festival, supporting a wheelchair basketball club or upgrading facilities for team sports.

Applications are open to registered charities, social enterprises, not-for-profit organisations, hospices, sports clubs and social housing providers. All applicants must be based in the UK or Ireland.

The grants are intended to support projects that deliver clear community benefit and encourage participation through accessible activities.

The deadline for applications is 31 March 2026 (17:00). For more information, please visit Rowntree’s – Free the Fund Community Grant Programme - Groundwork