Grant News

The UK Government has announced a £100 million investment aimed at upgrading local grassroots sports facilities across the nation. This initiative seeks to enhance community access to sports and physical activities, particularly in deprived areas, and to increase participation among under-represented groups, including women, girls, ethnic minorities, and disabled individuals.

The funding will be distributed during the 2025/26 period, with allocations of £82.3 million for England, £8.6 million for Scotland, £6.1 million for Wales, and £3 million for Northern Ireland. The investment is expected to support the development of new and improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts, and floodlights. At least 40% of the funded projects will offer multi-sport facilities to encourage broader community engagement.

This initiative is part of the Government's 'Plan for Change', aiming to break down barriers to opportunity and address persistent health inequalities through preventive measures. The upgraded facilities are intended to foster community cohesion, provide young people with opportunities to develop essential skills, and instill a sense of pride in local areas.

Organisations interested in applying for funding are encouraged to do so through the appropriate channels:​

• England: Applications can be made via the Football Foundation on an ongoing basis.​
• Wales: Applications are accepted through the Cymru Football Foundation.​
• Scotland and Northern Ireland: Dedicated application windows will open shortly; interested parties should consult their respective Football Association websites for further details.​

The first tranche of beneficiaries is expected to be announced in the summer of 2025.