Grant News

UK-German Connection has launched a new funding programme to support football-themed exchange trips for young people in the UK and Germany. The “Kicking Off Connections – funded football exchanges” initiative is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Schools, FE colleges, youth groups and football clubs can apply for grants of between £5,000 and £10,000 per exchange leg, depending on overall costs and the number of participants. The grant can normally cover up to 80% of the total eligible costs, and will be awarded on a joint basis to cover both exchange trips and costs incurred by both the UK and German groups.

At least 50% of participants must be from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds, and all participants must be aged 18 or under. The programme aims to support young people from these groups, particularly those who might otherwise not have the opportunity to take part in an exchange.

Applicants can either design their own football exchange or take part in Exchange2Change for young people.

UK applications must have a German partner, although help finding one is available.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted at least six weeks before the first visit. Applicants must register their interest in the first instance. All exchange activity must finish by 5 March 2027.