Voluntary and community organisations across the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to explore a new funding opportunity that could help them create welcoming spaces, improve facilities and bring people from different backgrounds together.
The government’s Common Ground Award 2026 to 2027 has up to £2.5 million in capital funding available for voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across England that are helping to build stronger, more connected communities.
What’s on offer
For Island organisations whose work is focused on bringing people together, the funding could help improve the places and equipment they rely on to make that happen.
Who can apply, and how much
Individual organisations can apply for grants of between £20,000 and £50,000, with the possibility of funding of up to £100,000 in exceptional cases. Organisations which come together as a consortium can apply for between £100,000 and £250,000.
The funding can be used for practical improvements that help organisations bring communities together. This could include refurbishing or expanding facilities, developing new spaces, or buying essential equipment such as furniture and laptops.
What the fund is looking for
The fund is particularly interested in organisations whose work:
- creates opportunities for people from different communities and backgrounds to mix, build understanding and overcome divisions;
- helps to reduce prejudice, discrimination and hatred; or
- helps communities resolve conflict and address tensions.
Eligibility criteria
A range of voluntary and community organisations can apply, including registered charities, community interest companies and some unincorporated community groups.
Organisations must be based and operating in England, have charitable, benevolent or philanthropic purposes and have an annual turnover or income of less than £5 million.
Organisations can apply independently or join with others to make a consortium application. Those who applied to the 2025 to 2026 Common Ground Award can apply again, regardless of the outcome of their previous application.
Key dates and how to apply
Applications are now open and must be submitted by 12th October 2026.
Successful applicants are expected to be notified in December, with funding likely to be paid in January 2027. Funding should generally be spent by 31st March 2027.
Applications for the Common Ground Award close on 12th October 2026.
For full eligibility criteria, guidance and details of how to apply, visit the Common Ground Award 2026 to 2027 prospectus on GOV.UK.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
