• Applications can be submitted online, by email or by post.
• After the closing date, all received applications are verified and a subgroup of the Locala Members’ Council, the Charities Committee meet to go over the applications and make a decision about which groups will receive funding and how much. Please note – you may not always receive the full funding amount you applied for. Locala colleagues will also vote on which groups they think should be supported and this is taken into account.
• The decision will then by approved at the Locala Members’ Council meeting.
• You will be expected to take part in positive communications about the fund if your application is successful, and will be invited to attend a presentation evening to meet some colleagues from Locala and receive your cheque.
• More information about this can be found on the ‘timeline’ page.

Who can apply?

Any groups based in Kirklees, Calderdale or Bradford that provide to support to people and communities in those areas can apply for up to £1500 in funding!

Groups must:

• Be not-for-profit of voluntary organisations (NOT branches of national charities)
• Have been in existence for at least one year
• Have an annual income of less than £30,000
• Have a constitution or governing documents
• Have a named bank account

How much can I apply for?

A maximum of £1500 can be applied for via the Community Fund. We ask that you provide a breakdown or the amount you are applying for as part of the application process, and get quotes for resources etc. to support your application.

Please note, groups may not always be awarded the full amount they have applied for. In some instances, a lesser amount may be offered.

What can I use the grant for?

You should state in your application how you intend the use the grant from the Community Fund. You can apply for funds from anything to ongoing running costs, equipment purchase or event costs. We cannot accept applications retrospectively or reimburse costs for items already purchased.

We will favour projects that benefit wider communities and not just one small group of individuals, and those that have longer term ambitions – although we do ask for details about how you intend to fund your project longer term if this is the case.

How can I apply for the Community Fund?

The application form the Community Fund can be completed online, or can be downloaded here, and printed and returned via email or to the address listed on the form. If you have any questions or need any help with your applications, please email membership@locala.org.uk

If I'm asking for money to update a building, does my group have to own the building?
Your group either needs to own the building, own the lease, or have at least 15 years left on the lease, if you are asking for money towards building or renovation costs or anything that will be a permanent unmovable fixture.

Can I apply for funds to contribute towards a larger project?
Yes, we will need to know what other money has been secured and what the Locala Community Fund donation would be used for. We will favour applications that demonstrate ability for other fundraising.

Can I apply for funds but not use them until a later date?
We expect applicants to spend their award within six months of receipt.

Can I submit multiple applications to the Community Fund?
Only one application can be accepted per group per year. Groups can reapply for funding in subsequent years however.