Material Focus, an independent not-for-profit organisation whose mission is to stop electricals from being hoarded and thrown away and ensure they are reused and recycled instead, is offering a total of £1 million for this year's funding round.

Established community sector organisations based in the UK such as registered charities and local authorities, can apply for grants of up to £100,000 for pilot projects taking place for one year.

The funding should be used for the expansion or introduction of a new project that could not have happened without the funding, rather than core operational costs.

The 2026-27 round is for the following proposed pilots:

Bring banks
Bring bank refurbishments
Community drop off points
Drop off events if part of a bigger, longer term pilot
Reuse if part of a larger recycling pilot

The funding can be used for the following:

Buying new bins or collection points
Renting vehicles for electricals collections
Installing bins
Communication and marketing activity, including printed materials and digital campaigns
Staffing costs for time spent planning and delivering the pilot. Funding can be used on salaries where the individual is working on the agreed, funded pilot.
Collection costs, but only to a Designated Collection Facility (DCF) or nominated transfer station.

Applications will not be accepted from individuals, profiting businesses, small community groups such as Parish councils, community stores, youth clubs nor can it support major capital purchases such as vehicles or property.

The deadline for applications is 31 May 2026. For more information, please visit Electricals Recycling Fund - Material Focus