Could funding help your community project reach the next level?

Funding is available for community groups across the Dorset Council area to improve their local facilities and spaces.

Grants can help with a range of initiatives, including: 

• enhancing or renovating village halls and other community buildings 
• creating facilities such as car parks, play areas, and multi-use games areas 
• upgrading theatres, sports clubs, pitches and outdoor spaces.

Not‑for‑profit organisations are invited to apply for grants of between £1,000 and £25,000 through Round 7 of the Capital Leverage Fund. It is open for applications from 5 May 2026 until January 2027.

The funding, which is managed by us, can help groups turn their plans into reality and deliver lasting benefits for their communities.

Applications are also welcome for projects that support climate change initiatives, arts, culture, heritage, accredited museums and sports development. 

Grants can cover up to 20 per cent of total project costs. Applicants must secure the remaining 80% before funding is released. 

A total of £155,000 is available to be shared between projects in this round of funding.

Cllr Ryan Hope, Cabinet Member for customer, culture and community engagement at Dorset Council, said: “These grants help local groups improve the places where people meet, stay active and take part in community life.

“In the last funding round, eight projects shared more than £70,000, helping communities adapt and improve facilities that are well used and valued by local people.

“We know this funding can give community organisations a real boost, and we’re keen to see strong applications from across Dorset. Good luck!”

Projects must 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 Sunday 10 January 2027 and must be submitted using the online application form.   

Applicants can find out more about the fund, eligibility, funding criteria including exclusions and how to apply on the capital leverage webpages.   

There will be two assessment dates when awards will be considered – September 2026 and again in January 2027.

To speak to someone regarding your application, you can contact a member of the team by email:

• [email protected] for community projects
• [email protected] for culture‑themed projects

Please note, the Capital Leverage Funding is in addition to funding from the Dorset Council Youth Fund which is open for applications until 20 May 2026. The Dorset Council Youth Fund awards funding to voluntary and community sector organisations supporting children and young people.  Find out how to apply to the Youth Fund here (applications close 20 May 2026).