Grants available for not-for-profit companies and organisations delivering impact across Northern Ireland and the UK
The Connect Fund offers up to £1 million to support partnerships between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. It aims to tackle shared challenges and create new opportunities that benefit communities in Northern Ireland.
The UK Government seeks to promote unity and improve lives by helping community groups across the UK work together.
Projects must focus on East-West collaboration and meet at least one of these objectives
- build lasting relationships between groups in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK
- propose an original approach to developing East-West connections
- support the development of cultural, sports and people-to-people links
- develop leadership skills for community leaders
- facilitate positive and constructive dialogue on shared opportunities and challenges facing communities in the UK
Applicants can bid for projects from £300 to £50,000. Funding can be provided for both standalone projects and for a more recurrent project.
- Round 1 will run from 12 June 2025 to 31 March 2026
- Round 2 will run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027
Who can apply?
Applications are open to
- not-for-profit companies
- Community Interest Companies (CIC)
- registered charities
- statutory bodies
- voluntary or community groups
- constituted clubs or groups
Check the full eligibility criteria and apply for the Connect Fund.
The closing date is Wednesday 10 February 2027 at 5 pm.
First published 9 September 2025
