Funding scheme opens to support community initiatives
Hackney Council is inviting local organisations to apply for grants of up to £120,000 to fund projects that will make the borough greener, safer, and fairer for all residents.
The Hackney Community Fund, launched in 2022, is financed through the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) - a charge placed on developers when they secure planning permission. A total of £650,000 is available to support local charities, voluntary groups, community interest companies and social enterprises in delivering projects that use arts, culture and the environment to bring people together and create lasting benefits for the community.
Projects funded as part of the first round of the Hackney Community Fund in 2022 included a community garden in Homerton promoting mental well-being; a permanent home for a youth theatre company that has served young people in Hackney for decades and a celebration of African and African-Caribbean heritage at Dalston CLR James Library.
Funding will be awarded based on how well projects meet key criteria, including deliverability, community support, value for money, and long-term impact.
Cllr Guy Nicholson, Deputy Mayor and cabinet member for housing management and regeneration said: “The first round of the Hackney Community Fund brought forward a range of inspirational projects that have made a profound, positive and lasting difference to the lives of many residents from across the borough's diverse communities.
“Hackney Council is no different from councils across the country. All are facing ever growing demand on local services which are generating severe financial pressures. To meet this challenge Hackney is using income generated through using planning contributions creatively - unlocking support that can create opportunities for residents and put decision-making in the hands of the communities who know best what they need to thrive. This also ensures that the benefits of new developments are felt by everyone and that a growing Hackney continues to put local residents first.”
Cllr Joe Walker, Deputy Cabinet Member for Strengthening Neighbourhood, said: “Hackney’s greatest strength lies in its diverse communities and the organisations which support them. I am delighted that the Council is able to continue to find ways to offer much-needed financial support, even in challenging times. The Hackney Community Fund is there to provide investment in vital community infrastructure to build stronger and resilient neighbourhoods and I look forward to seeing the incredible projects which will emerge as a result.”
Applications are open until 11.59pm on 6 October. Eligible organisations include charities, social enterprises, voluntary groups, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and companies limited by guarantee. Projects must be non-commercial and based entirely in Hackney.
Applicants should check the eligibility criteria and guidance thoroughly before applying. The Council has developed step-by-step application guidance which can be found at: hackney.gov.uk/community-fund.
The Hackney Community Fund is one of a number of ways in which Hackney Council works in partnership with local Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations. Hackney Council’s new VCS Grants Programme, which has been codesigned with VCS partners over the past months, will be launched in summer 2025 alongside a refreshed VCS Strategy.
Organisations can sign up to the Community Partnerships newsletter to receive further information.