£140,000 community grant fund opens for Maidstone organisations

Community groups, charities and local organisations in Maidstone are being encouraged to apply for a share of a new £140,000 funding programme aimed at supporting projects that benefit local residents.

Maidstone Borough Council has launched a new Community Grant Scheme, with the funding split across three application rounds during the 2026/27 financial year. Around £46,600 will be available in each round.

The first funding window is now open and focuses on town centre inclusion and safety. Applications must be submitted by 16 August 2026.

The scheme is open to a range of organisations, including community groups, charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and faith groups, provided their projects are accessible to the wider community.

Projects that could receive support include:

• Activities for vulnerable residents
• Youth inclusion programmes
• Women's safety initiatives
• Community events
• Arts and cultural projects
• Digital inclusion schemes
• Peer support groups
• Projects that strengthen community connections

Most organisations can apply for grants of up to £4,999 for one-off projects. Larger grants of up to £9,999 are available for projects that demonstrate strong partnership working, long-term benefits and a wider positive impact on the community.

Applications will be assessed based on how well projects support local people, strengthen community cohesion, improve resilience and deliver measurable benefits.

The council says this is the first of three planned funding rounds, with future opportunities expected to cover a broader range of locations beyond Maidstone town centre.

Community organisations interested in applying can find full eligibility details and application guidance on the Maidstone Borough Council website.

Original source: Maidstone Borough Council