National Lottery Community Fund
The UK's largest community funder, distributing over £600 million per year from National Lottery proceeds to community-led projects across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Overview
The National Lottery Community Fund (TNLCF) is the UK's largest funder of community-led projects, distributing more than £600 million per year raised through National Lottery ticket sales. Operating across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the Fund supports projects that bring people together, strengthen communities, and improve lives - from small local initiatives of a few hundred pounds to large strategic programs worth millions. TNLCF funds a wide range of causes including mental health, education, community cohesion, environmental action, and youth development.
What You Can Find Here
- National Lottery Awards for All England - grants of £300 to £20,000 for community projects up to 2 years
- National Lottery Awards for All Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland - equivalent small grants programs for each nation
- Reaching Communities England - larger grants from £20,001 to £20 million to strengthen communities and improve lives
- Community Action (Scotland) - £20,001 to £250,000 for community-led projects that help people connect
- People and Places (Wales) - £20,001 to £500,000 for accessible, community-led work in Wales
- Fairer Life Chances (Scotland) - £20,001 to £500,000 supporting children, young people, families, and health access
- Dormant Assets for All (Northern Ireland) - £300 to £20,000 from the Dormant Assets Scheme for VCSE growth
- Environment-focused grants under National Lottery Awards for All England - Environment stream
Who Should Use This
- Community groups, charities, and voluntary organisations running projects that bring people together or support local needs
- Social enterprises and cooperatives delivering services that improve health, wellbeing, or community cohesion
- Youth organisations and schools running after-school programs, mentoring, or skills development activities
- Environmental and nature-focused groups tackling climate, biodiversity, and local green space
- Grassroots sports clubs and arts organizations seeking small grants for community participation
- Larger charities and public bodies developing strategic programs addressing systemic social issues in England
- VCSE organisations in Northern Ireland seeking growth and resilience funding from Dormant Assets
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Go to tnlcommunityfund.org.uk and review the "Funding programmes" section to identify relevant programs
- Step 2: Filter programs by project location (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) and by grant size
- Step 3: Read the full program guidelines for your chosen fund to check eligibility and what costs can be covered
- Step 4: Use the "Getting ready to apply" section to prepare your project idea, budget, and community need evidence
- Step 5: Create an account on the application portal at account.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
- Step 6: Complete and submit the online application - decision times range from 12 to 40 weeks depending on the program
Things to Check Before Applying
- Most programs require applicants to be constituted community organisations - sole traders and individuals cannot apply directly
- The Fund covers project costs but typically does not fund core running costs or staff salaries as the primary purpose
- Awards for All decisions take 16 weeks in England and 12 weeks in other nations - plan your project timeline accordingly
- Larger grants (over £20,000) require a more detailed application including a Theory of Change and financial accounts
- Your project must demonstrate clear community benefit and must not be a statutory duty of government
- Applications for Reaching Communities England above £500,000 require a development phase before a full application
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I apply for from National Lottery Community Fund?
Small grants range from £300 to £20,000 under Awards for All programs. Larger programs like Reaching Communities England fund from £20,001 up to £20 million for multi-year projects.
Who is eligible to apply?
Constituted voluntary and community organisations, charities, social enterprises, schools, and statutory bodies can apply. Eligibility varies by program - always check the specific program guidelines.
How long does it take to get a decision?
Awards for All decisions take 12-16 weeks. Larger programs like Reaching Communities England can take up to 40 weeks. Check each program page for the current decision timeline.
Can I apply for more than one grant at a time?
In most cases yes, provided the projects are different. However, you cannot apply to two programs for the same project costs. Consult the guidance or contact a funding officer if unsure.
Does TNLCF fund projects outside the UK?
No. TNLCF only funds projects that benefit communities in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
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