Community grants – frequently asked questions

Where do I need to be based to be eligible for this grant?

National Grid’s Community Grant Programme is designed to support communities and organisations that are being adversely affected by our works. As such, eligibility is not determined based simply on the proximity of a project to National Grid works, but by the applicants ability to show the adverse impact of this work on their organisation and the community where they operate. If you are unsure, please e-mail or call us.

Can we apply more than once?

Organisations can receive a maximum of one grant each financial year. We will consider a further award in subsequent years if:

  • we have received an end of grant monitoring form for the previous grant; and

  • the applicant is applying for funding for a ‘new’ project; and

  • the organisation still meets the criteria, including the requirement that the community is being affected by our operations.

We will not provide on-going support to a project that has previously received funding or fund core running costs.

Can we apply for a project that lasts more than a year?

We expect all awards to be used within 12 months. However, if there is an unexpected delay with your project we can allow some flexibility.

Can we apply for repeat funding?

We do not usually fund a project more than once, but you can apply for funding for a ‘new’ project once the original has been completed. We will not provide ongoing support to a project that has previously received funding or fund core running costs.

Are social enterprises and community interest companies eligible?

Yes, so long as you have a constitution that confirms you are a not-for-profit organisation and have a minimum of three unrelated Directors.

Can we apply for a grant to make improvements to land or buildings which we do not own?

No, we cannot fund applications to land or property where the applicant cannot demonstrate that they have long-term security in its continued use, e.g. a lease or formal agreement for use. Voluntary organisations using land or premises must be able to demonstrate that they have tenure over the property before making an application.

We cannot fund applications where the capital item will become the property of another organisation.

 

If you have other questions about applying for a grant, you can contact us by email at [email protected].

Where possible, applicants should state whether their request relates to National Grid Electricity Transmission's Community Grant Programme or the Landscape Enhancement Initiative.

For questions about applying for a grant linked to a National Grid UK Land and Property project, please email [email protected].