Grant News

Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) today announces the reopening of its Main Grants Scheme for Village Halls, funded by the Government 

Eligible organisations include charities, charitable trusts, parish councils, or community associations that own or manage the building. The hall must be located in a rural area, typically serving populations under 10,000 people

The fund supports capital projects aimed at improving energy efficiency, extending facilities, refitting interiors, remodelling layouts, or installing new communication systems. Grants cover 20% of eligible costs, with awards ranging from £7,500 to £75,000.  To date, nearly £3 million has been distributed to village halls across rural England.

Previous projects included new roofs with solar panels, reconfigured interiors, modernised kitchens and toilets, and conversions of church or pavilion spaces for community use.

Applications must be submitted via an online form. Applicants should first read the fund criteria and FAQs, download the application questions, prepare necessary documents, and then complete the online form . Stage 1 involves basic eligibility and project outline; successful applicants advance to Stage 2 for detailed plans and budgets.

The closing date is not fixed; applications are processed in order received and may close early if oversubscribed . Queries can be emailed to villagehallsfund@acre.org.uk.