The Mayor of London has launched a new grant award and capacity building programme to develop partnerships led by and for groups who have been disproportionally affected by Covid-19. The Civil Society Roots Incubator programme will offer two grant streams to charities, community groups, social enterprises and other not for profit organisations: Micro Awards, which will also be open to individuals, will provide up to £5,000 for early-stage projects addressing gaps in community response; and up to £15,000 will be available through Growth Awards to help collaborations and/or partnerships that have developed during the emergency response become more sustainable. Grantees will join a 6-month incubator programme with a curriculum and bespoke support, which will develop the partnerships and skills of those involved. The deadline for applications is 5pm on the 26th January 2021. Click here

Community group, charities and grass root organisations can apply for funding to raise awareness of the Windrush Scheme, the Windrush Compensation Scheme or both. A total of £500,000 is available; and eligible organisations can apply for grants of between £2,500 and £25,000 for activities including holding events; producing and distributing marketing materials; accessing and using communication channels; and securing support from partners. The funding is being made available through the Home Office and the closing date for applications is 11.59 pm on the 12th February 2021. Click here

Registered charities (including Schools that are registered as charities for young people with disabilities) that work with disadvantaged children under the age of 25 can apply for funding of up to £10,000. Of particular interest are projects that provide opportunities for disadvantaged children and young people to fulfil their potential and educational activities that develop learning, motivation and skills. Projects could, for example, support special educational needs; address behavioural problems or promote citizenship; and parenting or life skills. Preference will be given to projects piloting new approaches where the outcomes will be disseminated to a wider audience. The funding is being made available through the Ironmongers Company’s grants programme. The next closing date for applications is the 31st July 2021. Click here

Small charities and community groups in England will be able to apply for grants of up to £2,500 for projects and activities that reduce loneliness by helping people feel more connected. The funding is being made available through the new £4 million Local Connections Fund which is made up of £2 million from the Government and £2 million from The National Lottery Community Fund. The Local Connections Fund will be split into two rounds of funding – each with its own application window, one in January 2021 and one in the summer 2021. The funding will be available to charities and community groups in England with an annual income of £50,000 or less. This first round will be open for applications on 5 January 2021 and close on 26 January 2021. Click here