The following grants are available to help communities implement carbon saving actions and enhance biodiversity in Suffolk.
Low carbon and energy efficiency:
Suffolk Climate Action Community Match Fund – The Fund is to assist charities, community interest companies, parish councils, voluntary groups and other not for profit organisations who wish to deliver community-based carbon reduction projects.
West Suffolk Greener Business Grant – The Green Business Grant is funded by West Suffolk Council to help local businesses and organisations reduce their energy use. Up to £1,000 is available to fund capital works.
National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) open programmes – Reaching Communities Fund and Awards for All funding programmes support a wide range of activities and sectors for community organisations, including supporting environmental focused projects. Projects will need to address the wider strategic aims and ambitions of the funding criteria too. Grants range from £300 to over £10,000.
Adnams Community Trust – Not-for-profit and schools can apply for revenue or capital grants from £100-£2,500 towards a range of community projects, including those with environment and conservation outcomes. Projects must take place within 25-mile radius of Southwold.
Aviva Community Fund – The fund helps local causes build stronger communities across the UK, with a focus on climate action and financial wellbeing. Funding is available for organisations looking to raise up to £50,000.
Landscapes and biodiversity:
National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) open programmes – Supporting landscapes and nature projects is a funding priority for NLHF, particularly ones that support nature’s recovery, deliver nature-based solutions to address climate change and reconnect people to landscapes and nature. Environmental sustainability is expected to be embedded into applicants’ decision making, and projects will need to reach the mandatory outcome of engaging a wider range of people. Grants range from £3,000 up to millions of pounds.
Esmee Fairbairn Foundation – Working with others and supporting projects to preserve and improve species health and habitats, sustainable and ethical food, and clean and healthy freshwater. Various grant amounts available.
Alfred Williams Charitable Trust – Charities and community groups can apply for grants (£500-£1,000) for projects in the area of natural and man-made environment and heritage in Suffolk only. Conservation and restoration is included, but not on-going activities or routine maintenance.
Other Grants:
The OVO Foundation Nature Prize – Lets Go Zero – 25 Schools will get a grant for up to £1000 for projects to inspire children to engage with Climate Change and Nature, and their wider Communities. All you have to do to enter is explain what you’d do with the prize money. Entries close 27th November 2023.
For advice and support on external funding opportunities in Suffolk, covering a range of different sectors and activities, please visit the Suffolk County Council webpage to download the VCSE bi-weekly Grants Alert.